What's Going Around: Poison Ivy
May 14, 2012
It's itchy and anyone can get it. Dr. Marsha Taylor of Greene Family Medicine says poison ivy is what's going around central Virginia this week.
As the temperatures warm up and more people head outdoors, Dr. Taylor says people should be on the lookout for poison ivy.
Symptoms include an itchy rash with patches or red bumps. Mild swelling can also occur. Poison ivy can last one to three days and anyone who goes outside or has pets can get it.
To ease itching, Dr. Taylor says people should avoid scratching, using wet cloths on the rash and put on calamine lotion or a topical hydrocortisone cream.
When it comes to prevention, she says people should avoid contact with the plant and wash clothing, gloves, tools and pets that may have come in contact with the plant.
She recommends seeing a physician if your rash is widespread or involves the face or genitals.
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