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CBS News Staff /

CBS News/ December 13, 2012, 12:39 PM

Hidden holiday allergy triggers: How to stay protected

Poinsettia

Poinsettia, stock, 4x3 Getty Images
Poinsettias are popular holiday decorations that could cause trouble for people who are allergic to latex or rubber, says Dr. Bassett, because the plant is a relative of the rubber tree. About 3 million Americans are thought to have a latex allergy, according to the American Latex Allergy Association.

Allergic reactions can be caused even without direct contact, if a pet rubs up against poinsettia and bumps into someone with an allergy, Bassett adds.