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Indirect contact with poison ivy, oak, or sumac

Healthwise
By Jan Nissl, RN, BS

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Indirect contact with the allergenic oil in poison ivy, oak, and sumac can occur from contact with:

  • Sporting equipment, such as fishing rods, balls, baseball bats and gloves, and hockey sticks.
  • Lawn and gardening tools, such as lawn mower handles, rakes, and gardening gloves.
  • Clothing and shoes, such as gloves, pants, or footwear that have brushed against the plant.
  • Pet fur. Although animals do not get a rash when they are exposed to poison ivy, they can carry the oil on their fur, where it may be spread to people who pet them.

Credits

Author Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Primary Medical Reviewer William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Alexander H. Murray, MD, FRCPC - Dermatology
Last Updated May 8, 2007
Last Updated: 05/08/2007