26 November 2012, Iselin, NJ - Ansell, a global leader in protection solutions, today launched the GAMMEX® Non-Latex Antimicrobial1 surgical glove, a new to the world medical device, in the Canadian market. This glove combines allergy and antimicrobial protection for healthcare workers in Canada, especially in the case of intraoperative glove breaches.
The glove’s proprietary antimicrobialchlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) coatingis effective against99% of the Hepatitis C virus, HIV-1 strain Mn and six common infectious bacteria, including drug-resistant MRSA2. This protects the healthcare worker against bacterial transmission, which occurs in half of glove breaches resulting from normal wear.*
Made of a polyisoprene material, the GAMMEX Non-Latex Antimicrobial surgical glove prevents latex (Type I) allergies, which account for 17% of glove-related reactions**, offering a complete solution for patients and healthcare workers.
“The introduction of this glove is a great advancement for Ansell,” said Robert Gaither, Senior Vice President and Regional Director, Ansell North America.“Not only is it the first of our GAMMEX glove range to be delivered to the Canadian market, but it is a first of its kind medical device globally, setting new standards for infection prevention and healthcare worker and patient safety.”
GAMMEX is the global brand leader in surgical gloves, with more than 100 million pairs used annually in hospitals worldwide.The GAMMEX brand exemplifies a commitment to innovation, incorporating cutting-edge technologies and providing advanced allergy protection. Through a broad range of options, the GAMMEX brand offers the highest level of customized protection and superior performance needed in any surgical environment. The GAMMEX Non-Latex Antimicrobial surgical glove is expected to launch in other regions over the next twelve months.
* Harno J-C, Partecke L-I, Heidecke C-D, Hübner N-O, Kramer A, Assadian O. Concentration of bacteria passing through puncture holes in surgical gloves. Am J Infect Control. 2010;38:154-158. (Notice: Dr. Ojan Assadian has performed consulting work for Ansell.)
** Filon FL. Bosco A. Fiorito A. Negro C. Barbina P. Latex symptoms and sensitisation in healthcare workers. Int Arch Occup Environ Health. 2001: 74: 219-223
1 GAMMEX® Non-Latex Antimicrobial gloves are not proven to protect against blood-borne infections where the skin is broken, cut or punctured.
2 Kill rates were achieved following five minutes of exposure.
For more information:
Ansell Media Relations / Ansell Investor Relations
Frank Mantero,GC –Ansell / David Graham, I.R. -Ansell
Tel: (1)732 345 2128/(1) 908770 3595 / Tel: (613)9270 7215 / (61)4011 407 49
frank.mantero@ansell.com / dgraham@ap.andell.com
About Ansell
Ansell is a world leader in providing superior health and safety protection solutions that enhance human wellbeing. With operations in NorthAmerica, Latin America/Caribbean, EMEA and Asia, Ansell employs more than 10,000 people worldwide and holds leading positions in the personal protective equipment and medical gloves market, as well as in the sexual health and wellbeing category worldwide. Ansell operates in four main business segments: Medical Solutions, Industrial Solutions, Specialty Markets and Sexual Wellness.
Information on Ansell and its products can be found at www.ansell.com