§ Mr. BoswellTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps he is taking to encourage greater awareness of allergy to latex among(a) health professionals and (b) the general public; and what research in' this area he is supporting. [94949]
§ Mr. DenhamThe Department is aware of the problems associated with latex allergy for patients and healthcare workers in the National Health Service. The NHS Executive has recently issued guidance to all NHS trusts and health authorities on reducing the risk of allergic reaction to latex. This follows recommendations made to the Health Service in 1996 (Medical Devices Agency DB9601) which was re-issued with further advice in 1998 (Medical Devices Agency SN9825). The Department is an active participant in the European Commission Working Group which is investigating issues surrounding the use of medical devices made of latex and is also funding a study into the prevention of occupational skin disease in the workplace.