Is a poison oak, poison sumac or poison ivy rash contagious?
A poison ivy rash itself is not contagious. However, the oil can transfer from person to person through contaminated clothing or other objects. Pets can also carry urushiol on their skin or fur and transmit the oil to you. Can I touch a dead poison ivy plant without risking a rash? No. Urushiol is found in the roots, stems, leaves and berries of these plants and is toxic year-round. In fact, urushiol may remain active in dead plants for up to five years. How long will the poison ivy oils remain active on my clothes and garden tools? Urushiol may be transmitted on outdoor equipment, golf clubs, garden tools and clothing. The oil can remain active on these items for up to five years. Wear protective gloves and wash affected tools thoroughly with soap and water. Clean contaminated clothing in a separate wash load. Where do poison ivy, oak and sumac plants grow? Poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac plants grow almost everywhere in the United States, except Hawaii, Alaska, desert areas a
