Latex Allergy

EDM number 1376 in 2001-02, proposed by Laura Moffatt on 23/05/2002.

That this House congratulates the Latex Allergy Support Group and the National Association of Theatre Nurses for organising a 'Meeting of Minds' on 20th May to bring together all stakeholders to discuss ways to reduce the risk of needless allergic sensitization and reaction of individuals to latex; notes that whilst latex is effective in preventing the transmission of blood borne viruses it is also the fastest growing cause of asthma in the workplace; further notes that severe, even fatal, reactions have been reported from the inappropriate use of latex-containing medical products on sensitized patients; is concerned that many individuals are suffering allergic reactions from materials which are known to cause latex allergies and which can be easily substituted; and therefore calls upon the Department for Health to ban the use of powdered high protein gloves known to cause latex allergies and ensure that all ambulance, acute, community and primary care trust workers receive the equipment and the training to avoid harm to latex-sensitive patients; and calls on honourable Members to raise with trusts in their constituency how they are minimising the risks of latex allergy among their staff and the patients.

This motion has been signed by a total of 32 MPs.