Question - Urushiol is the oleoresin chemical associated with the development of contact dermatitis of toxicodendron plants. Once this substance dries on fomites is it still capable of inducing contact dermatitis and if so, for how long does it remain active?
Answer- The cited article notes urushiol “dries quickly on fomites, where it retains its antigenic potential in the dry state indefinitely (longevity is increased in dry climates and decreased in warm, moist climates).” (Gladman AC. Toxicodendron dermatitis: Poison ivy, oak and sumac. 2006 Wilderness and Env Med 17:120-128)
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