Davidson County
Health Department
HEALTH TO YOU A – Z
INFORMATION SHEET
Poison Oak, Ivy, or Sumac
What is Poison Oak, Ivy, or Sumac?
Poison Oak, Ivy, or Sumac are native plants grown in our area that contain sap or oil (Urushiol)
that cause an allergic reaction to 80-90% of adults. When the leaf, stem, or other parts of the plant
are touched, bruised, mashed, cut, or burned, the plant releases this oil. The oil that gets on the
skin causes blisters or bumps and intense itching, known as contact dermatitis.
What are the symptoms?
The oil that is released from the plant causes blisters, rash, redness, and intense itches usually
occurs within 12-48 hours after exposure to the oil. This rash can last from 10 days to 4 weeks.
The blisters can rupture causing oozing. Swelling can also occur in the area affected.
What is the treatment?
 Clean the skin that has come in contact with the oil immediately with rubbing alcohol and
then wash area with a degreasing dish detergent. Follow with a shower with warm water
and soap. Scrub under fingernails with a brush.
 Do not handle clothes that have come in contact with the oil because the oil can be
transferred to the skin. Pets can also “share” the oil with their owners.
 Scratching the affected area can lead to infection. Make sure children’s fingernails are
short and clean.
 Over the counter anti-itch remedies can be used if desired according to what your medical
provider recommends and bathing in an oatmeal bath will sometimes decrease the itching.
 If the rash is on the face especially close to the eyes or close to the genitals see your health
care provider for treatment.
How does the rash spread?
Some persons are more sensitive to the oil of these plants than are others. The sap of the plants
can remain active for up to one year on objects such as garden tools and clothing. The liquid
from the oozing of the blisters cannot spread the rash. Poison ivy is not spread by skin to skin
contact. Bathing or showering will not spread the rash and may prevent infection.
How can you prevent the rash from Poison Oak, Ivy, or Sumac?
 Learn to identify these three plants by sight and teach children to avoid them.
 Destroy these poisonous plants that grow around your house by chemicals or removing the
plants (wear protective clothing and gloves).
 Never burn these plants because of possibility of lung irritation.
 When walking in the woods or fields wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants and socks.
Wash these clothes with as little skin contact as possible after wearing.
PO Box 439, Lexington, NC 27293
(336) 242-2300
www.dchdnc.com