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Top 10 Myths About
Poison Ivy
Myth #1: Scratching poison ivy blisters will
spread the rash.
Fact: The rash is caused by the urushiol oil
found in poison ivy, oak and sumac and is not spread by
the fluid in the blisters. If you have the urushiol oil
on your hands and you scratch your nose or wipe your
forehead, you may spread the oil and hence the rash.
Avoid excessive scratching and make sure your
fingernails and hands are clean.
Myth #2: Poison ivy rash is “contagious.”
Fact: The rash is a reaction to urushiol oil
found in poison ivy, oak and sumac. The rash cannot pass
from person to person, but urushiol can be spread by
contact.
Myth #3: Once allergic, always allergic to poison
ivy.
Fact: A person's sensitivity to urushiol changes
over time, and even from season to season. People who
were sensitive to poison ivy as children may not be
allergic as adults and vice versa. |
