Poison ivy, oak and sumac: Poison ivy, oak and sumac are the most common contact-poisonous plants in the United States, but there are others within the U.S. and elsewhere around the world. Learn to recognize the leaves of noxious plants to avoid the misery of the highly itchy rashes they can cause. For information about identifying poison ivy, oak and sumac, see CDC.gov/Niosh/Topics/Plants. Before you engage in wilderness activities in other parts of the world, research what plants to avoid there. Exposure to urushiol, the natural chemical that causes the allergic rash, is possible by direct contact with the plant, indirect contact with a surface that has touched the plant or inhalation of particles from burning plants that contain the substance. The CDC recommends the following steps for avoiding contact with such plants: • Cover up: Wear long sleeves, long pants and gloves. • Consider using a barrier lotion containing bentoquatam, but such lotions must be washed off and reapplied twice a day. • Use rubbing alcohol (isopropanol or isopropyl alcohol) or soap and water to clean any gear that may have come in contact with such plants. Urushiol can remain potent on the surface of objects for up to five years. • Do not burn plants that may contain urushiol or similar substances. If despite your best efforts you come in contact with poisonous plants, the CDC recommends the following steps: • Immediately wash the area well with rubbing alcohol, a specialized plant wash or a degreasing soap (such as dishwashing liquid) and lots of water, and then rinse well. • Scrub under your nails with a brush. • If you have a blistering rash, apply wet compresses, calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream to mitigate the itching. An oatmeal bath or oral antihistamines such as Benadryl may also relieve itching. • Seek medical attention in cases of a severe allergic reaction or severe itching or blistering.
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