5 Simple Ways to Avoid Latex Allergy Amid the Pandemic

The current pandemic pushed us to stay indoors as we try to grasp the new normal. But for others who are fighting a physical battle way before the virus kicks in, COVID-19 has made another part of their lives more difficult to manage, especially when you have a latex allergy.

With the use of surgical masks and latex gloves becoming prevalent, the risk of having an allergic reaction to latex increases. People with this type of skin allergy have to double the caution in doing outdoor activities than before, since latex can surprisingly be found in everyday places. 

Here are the 5 simple ways that you can do to avoid allergic reactions to latex during this pandemic. 

1. AVOID GROCERY STORES

If you're allergic to latex particles, grocery stores can turn your pleasant day into a living hell. Nowadays, a lot of people are using latex gloves during their grocery runs. 

While there is completely nothing wrong with using gloves as a safety precaution, tiny latex particles could potentially be transferred to food products, shopping carts, handrails, and others.  

Also, the conveyor belts in checkout counters are commonly made from latex, so be sure to stay away from those. Instead of taking the risk, have someone else do your errands. You may also take advantage of digital grocery delivery services to get fresh food in the safest and fastest way possible. 

As an alternative, use our Hypoallergenic Gloves. A pair of these durable and versatile gloves provides protective thickness from unwanted allergens, retains shape after multiple washes, and keeps your hands cozy and well aerated.

2. DOUBLE-CHECK RESTAURANTS 

It has become a necessity for restaurants to observe recommended health protocols for a safe operation. Aside from the face masks and other sanitation measures, others operate with gloves for cooking, food preparation, and cleaning. 

By doing this, some restaurants put their customers at risk by using latex gloves in food preparation. The proteins from the latex gloves can transfer to food and kitchen surfaces, contaminating the food being prepared and harming your health. 

Some people, who are highly sensitive to latex, have gotten sick from food prepared by handlers wearing latex gloves. Before heading out for a meal, try to inquire if the kitchen staff wears latex gloves when handling or preparing food. Also, while you’re at it, veer away from cross-reactive foods that can cause reactions for people with latex allergies. Or, better yet, make your food at home—it’s the most practical way to fill hungry bellies. 

3. MAKE YOUR HOME LATEX-PROOF

Homes should be our safe places, but is it safe for you? 

According to WebMD, latex can be hiding even in the smallest areas and things found inside the house such as rubber sink stoppers, sink mats, rubber, rubber-grip utensils, electrical cords, water hoses, bath mats, rubber-backed floor rugs, rubber-gripped toothbrushes, tub toys, and others. 

You can also check your appliances and cover them as latex lurks in them as well, including mouse and keyboard wires, desktop and chair pads, mouse and wrist pads with rubber, keyboards and calculators with rubber keys or switches, and even remote controls with rubber grips or keys. 

4. MEDICAL AND DENTAL CLINICS 

Just like restaurants, medical and dental offices are also taking precautionary measures against COVID-19. These places are probably wearing synthetic protective gear as well.  

Although many health facilities maintain latex-safe areas for the affected patients and workers, the current pandemic forces them to wear synthetic gloves. Before busting your way through their doors, call first your health care provider about your allergic condition when making your appointment. 

5. WEAR ORGANIC COTTON CLOTHES

Prevention is always better than cure. Avoid unexpected exposure to latex when you wear clothes made from natural materials and organic processes. Instead of using clothes with latex waistbands, use 100% organic cotton clothing from our Nothing-But-Cotton collection.

Our NBC collection thrives without the use of allergens, elastics, harmful chemicals, and dyes. You may also try our collection of hypoallergenic face masks here. With Cottonique, experience allergy-free days with clothes that offer uncompromised prevention of severe allergies and multiple chemical sensitivities.

TAKEAWAY:

We all know the dangers that latex brings to our health, that's why it's very important to know where this threatening material lurks. Aside from the things mentioned above, the other areas that latex may be found include hair salons, flower shops, carpet, and even the rubber buttons in ATMs.

DISCLAIMER: The information presented on Cottonique is not, and will never be, intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All content materials found on this site, from text, treatments, outcomes, charts, graphics, photographs, and study findings, are created and published for general informational purposes only. It should not, in any way, be construed as a standard of care to be followed by a user of the website. 

Thus, readers are encouraged to verify any information obtained from this website with other accurate references and review all information regarding any medical condition or treatment with their physician. As Cottonique strives to help those with allergies live with better days, the hypoallergenic apparel brand encourages everyone to always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.