FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
American Latex Allergy Association
PO BOX 198
Slinger, WI 53086
Phone: (888) 97-ALERT
Email: alert@latexallergyresources.org [1]
Website: www.latexallergyresources.org [2]

American Latex Allergy Association: 
School Safety Guidelines For Latex-Allergic Students 2ND Edition

MILWAUKEE, WI ( June 6th, 2011) – In response to numerous queries from schools, the American Latex Allergy Association has released the 2nd Edition of the resource manual titled School Safety Guidelines For Latex-Allergic Students. This 91-page manual contains resources to educate and assist school personnel as they strive to create a latex-safe learning environment.

Certain students are at higher risk for developing latex allergy, including those with a history of other allergies (atopy); a history of spina bifida; a history of frequent urogenital surgeries and/or catheterizations; a history of other frequent surgeries; and a history of certain food allergies, such as banana, kiwi, avocado, chestnut, passion fruit, celery, and melon. The medical community uses preventative latex precautions when treating these students, and latex-safe protocols should be used in the school environment, even if symptoms are not present, in order to prevent the development of a latex allergy.

School Safety Guidelines For Latex-Allergic Students contains information about the prevalence and risk factors for latex allergy; suggested guidelines for creating a latex-safe school; sample school policies and forms; state and national legislation; position statements from the National Association of School Nurses and the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology; a latex-free school alternative products list and other product resources; and educational articles.

The manual has been partially funded by Dey Pharma, L.P. and will be available from the American Latex Allergy Association for $45.00.