[pct-l] Poison Oak

[Tortoise]

One point often not mentioned with regards to PO.

you can go a long time without being sensitive (ie allergic) to PO.
then one exposure/rub you become sensitized and likely won't be aware.
the next time, you are likely to have a big reaction.

this is my experience.
I now carry a prescription cortisone ointment to apply to the rash when it 
first comes on. I've carried TechNu and Zantel but haven't used them to 
know how they work for me.

as others mentioned, you can get the oil on your clothes or gear, then 
"catch" the PO from contact with that stuff too.


Tortoise

<> He who finishes last, wins! <>


Rod Belshee wrote:
> Since you haven't had poison oak reactions before, I wouldn't rush into
> anything. People vary tremendously in their sensitivity.
> 
> I'm lucky and never had a poison oak issue on the PCT, even though I
> took no care to avoid the bushes that looked like poison oak. Other
> hikers had more problems. If you haven't reacted before, then I'd wait
> to see if it is an issue for you. But then, folks who react might have a
> very different opinion!
> 
> Steady _______________________________________________ Pct-l mailing
> list Pct-l at backcountry.net 
> http://mailman.backcountry.net/mailman/listinfo/pct-l
>