Scratching poison oak blisters will spread the rash.
False. The fluid in the blisters will not spread the rash. The rash is spread only by urushiol. For instance, if you have urushiol on your hands, scratching your nose or wiping your forehead will cause a rash in those areas even though leaves did not contact the face. Avoid excessive scratching of your blisters. Your fingernails may carry bacteria that could cause an infection.

Poison oak rash is “catchy.”
False. The rash is a reaction to urushiol. The rash cannot pass from person to person; only urushiol can be spread by contact.

Once allergic, always allergic to poison oak.
False. A person's sensitivity changes over time, even from season to season. People who were sensitive to poison oak as children may not be allergic as adults.

Dead poison oak plants are no longer toxic.
False. Urushiol remains active for up to several years. Never handle dead plants that look like poison oak.

Rubbing weeds on the skin can help.
False. Usually, prescription cortisone preparations are required to decrease the itching.

One way to protect against poison oak is by keeping yourself covered outdoors.
True. However, urushiol can stick to your clothes, which your hands can touch, and then spread the oil to uncovered parts of your body. For uncovered areas, barrier creams are sometimes helpful. Learn to recognize poison oak so you can avoid contact with it.

References: http://paipm.cas.psu.edu/pivy.html http://www.aad.org/pamphlets/PoisonIvy.html

 

Home

Facts

Seasonal Change

Products\Treatment

Native American "Chumash" Usage

Quiz/Game

 

Web page made by Barrett Marsalek