The Honorable (Insert Name)

Your letterhead here

The Honorable (insert name) Governor State of ----- (address)

Dear Governor (insert name):

For 20 years, Latex Allergy Awareness Week has been recognized across the United States and this year October 1-7, 2017 has been designated with the theme “Beyond the Gloves: What you need to know about Latex Allergy.” To coincide with this week, we seek your support for individuals who have been diagnosed with a latex allergy by requesting the issuance of a gubernatorial proclamation in your state.

During this important week, Allergy & Asthma Network (Network), a national nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness of latex allergy and providing support to individuals living with this condition, will be sponsoring awareness and educational activities to raise awareness of latex allergy and inform the general public that individuals diagnosed with a latex allergy can have anaphylaxis and often develop asthma and cross reactive food allergies. The treatment/prevention key is - AVOIDANCE. Educating the public on basic information and treatments, changing related attitudes, and developing safe environments is paramount.

Unfortunately, the incidence of latex allergy has increased due to widespread exposure to products containing the latex rubber allergen. It is estimated that 10-17% of health care workers, 11% of rubber industry workers, 17% of restaurant workers, 6.8% of atopic (allergies) individuals, and up to 6% general population have latex allergy. Natural Rubber Latex (NRL) is found in more than 40,000 commonly used products in health care, child care, schools, communities, and homes. Reactions can be elicited from not only touching a product containing natural rubber latex, but also from breathing in airborne protein particles. The allergen can also be transferred to food that is prepared using latex gloves.

However, latex allergy-related reactions are preventable. Latex allergy-related job loss, quality of life reduction, negative lifestyle changes, escalating health care costs, and increased financial burden can be halted. Those who are in any of the risk groups should be educated on symptom recognition and prevention strategies to lessen the possibility of developing this life-altering condition.

Thank you for your consideration of this proclamation request. If agreed upon, please mail prior to September 30, 2017 to: (your address) If you have any questions, please contact (your name and contact information)

Best Regards,