Symptom Definitions for
Poison Ivy, Oak or Sumac

	Localized red rash with small blisters following poison ivy, oak or sumac exposure
	Rash is very itchy
	Located on exposed body surfaces (such as the hands) or areas touched by the hands (e.g. the face or genitals)

General Information

Poison Ivy, Poison Sumac, and Poison Oak are three plants that can cause an itchy red rash in sensitive individuals. The oil contained in the plant leaves irritates the skin. The redness and blistering from the rash is often arranged in streaks or lines, because the leaves brush across the body in a line as an individual walks past.

Onset: Following a first-time exposure, the onset time for the rash is 1 to 2 weeks. For recurrences, the onset is 8 to 48 hours after the individual was in a forest or field.

Preventing the Rash!

	Avoid Exposure: Avoid exposure to these plants, especially if you have had a bad reaction in the past.
	Wash skin: If you are exposed, remove the irritating plant oil from your skin as soon as possible. Wash the exposed part of your body with soap and water within 30 minutes. Wash your clothes in warm soapy water.
	IvyBlock: Is an over the counter cream. You put it on your skin before walking in the woods. It coats the skin and acts as a barrier to the irritating oil of the poison ivy/oak/sumac plants and prevents the rash from occurring. See http://www.ivyblock.com.

Last reviewed: 10/1/2005
Last revised: 8/1/2003