Natural Rubber Latex

How am I exposed to natural rubber latex?

You may be exposed to natural rubber latex proteins at or away from work. The allergenic latex protein(s) can enter the body:

through the skin, for example when latex gloves come in direct contact with skin

through mucous membranes, for example when you use birth control such as condoms and diaphragms that may contain natural rubber latex.

through a blood vessel and/or

through inhalation when airborne powder carrying the latex proteins is inhaled.

Cornstarch powder used in latex gloves (also found on balloons, tourniquets and various other products) is a carrier of the protein. Because proteins in the powder can be in the air from 5-12 hours after putting on and removing gloves, the latex allergen can be inhaled or settle on clothing, skin or mucous membranes hours after the gloves (balloons, tourniquets, etc…) have been removed from the immediate area.