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Poison Ivy

Description

Poison ivy is a type of allergenic plant common in Utah. We most often encounter poison ivy at the bottom of the last rappel where the canyon is marshy and has constant water. It grows on long stems and has leaves in groups of three. "Leaves of three, leave it be."

If you encounter poison ivy, your best course of action is to go around. However, if there is no way around, you can also use branches to push the plants out of the way.

If you touch poison ivy, the oil from the plant (urushiol) causes an allergic skin reaction several days later. You will not feel anything immediately. The oil can be transferred to difference surfaces and can cause repeated exposures for up to several years. About 75%-85% of people are allergic to urushiol, but most people have a greater reaction with repeated exposure.

If you're worried that you might have touched poison ivy, wash everything thoroughly with soapy water. Bag your clothes so they don't touch anything else until you can wash them at home.

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First Aid