Poison ivy causes a skin allergy known as contact dermatitis. The condition occurs when skin comes in contact with oils found on the poison ivy plant known as urushiol. The reaction is not serious, but can last up to three weeks. Symptoms include redness, itching, swelling and blisters forming on the skin. Similar toxic plants include poison sumac and poison oak. You can avoid poison ivy by knowing what you're dealing with.
Identify Poison Ivy
Knowing what the plant looks like is critical to avoiding contact. The plant has three leaflets on a stem. The saying "leaves of three let them be" is a reminder what the plant looks like. The center leaf grows on a longer stalk than the other left and right leaf. White, waxy berries are visible on the plant's stem. The plant comes in the form of a woody shrub or vine and can climb as high as 10 feet. All parts of the plant, including the roots, are poisonous according to the Missouri Department of Conservation.
Staying Clear
When hiking outdoors, it is important for people to stay on well-cleared paths to avoid touching poison ivy plants. Carefully inspect campsites for the plant before pitching a tent, recommends the Mayo Clinic. Pets should not be allowed to room free in areas where poison ivy is common. The urushiol sticks to pet's fur, which can later rub onto a person's clothing and skin. Remove all poison ivy from backyards and populated areas. A person should protect hands by wearing protective gloves when pulling out the plant. Herbicide can be applied to the plant to kill it quickly. However, even dead plants spread urushiol. Poison ivy should never be burned because the urushiol will become airborne and cause further irritation.
Decontamination
Wash all items that come in contact with poison ivy as soon as possible in a washing machine. Pet collars and leashes should also be laundered. Outdoor items and equipment such as gardening and camping tools should also be cleaned. If items cannot be decontaminated immediately, the Mayo Clinic recommends placing items into a plastic bag to avoid transferring oil onto other items. If skin contact has occurred, immediately wash with mild soap. An outbreak can be prevented if skin is cleaned within five to 10 minutes.
Member Comments