06/18/2025
Poison ivy: leaves of 3, leave them be.
Note the red stems. This can grow as a low plant, bush, or a vine.
If you even suspect you have had contact with it, wash as soon as possible. Clothes, shoes, hats, etc need to be washed in hot soapy water to remove the oil. The oil can stay active for over a year so don't think letting items sit will make it fade.
Wash yourself with Dawn (or similar) liquid dish soap by applying it to DRY skin like a lotion. Rub well, then rinse well with lots of warm water. This will remove the oil that causes the rash.
Poison Ivy rash is not contagious. It will spread or appear at varying rates depending on the amount of oil in contact with the skin and the sensitivity of your skin areas.