The toxic chemical can remain under the nails for several days unless carefully removed by thorough cleaning of the nails. A person who has washed thoroughly and has changed into clean clothing cannot spread poison oak. The only way to become a victim of poison oak is to make direct contact with the toxic resin. This is possible by coming in contact with a contaminated person who has not washed properly or changed into clean clothes. Other secondary exposures may result from simply handling garden tools, hunting or sports equipment, or camping gear exposed to poison oak.
Thick fur protects most pets that run through poison oak patches from developing symptoms.
But people who touch contaminated animals can come directly in contact with the toxic resin and can develop poison oak. Treatment consists mainly of protecting the damaged skin, preventing infection and relieving the itching. Store-brand or generic versions of these medications also work and are usually available. If the case of poison oak is severe, the patient should see a physician for more extensive treatment with stronger steroid medications. Applying diphenhydramine to open sores and taking diphenhydramine by mouth can cause a build-up of the drug leading to toxic symptoms.