No, hand sanitizer does not kill poison ivy. Hand sanitizer is designed to kill germs and disinfect surfaces by removing transient bacteria and viruses from the skin. However, the oily resin of poison ivy, known as urushiol, remains on the skin after contact and can penetrate the skin's surface. Urushiol can cause an allergic reaction and the spread of the rash if it comes into contact with an open area of skin.
Hand sanitizer may help remove some of the transient bacteria and viruses from the skin surface, but it does not prevent the spread of urushiol. For effective decontamination and prevention of a poison ivy rash, it is recommended to wash the affected area with soap and water or an alcohol-based sanitizer immediately after contact. Additionally, wearing protective clothing and gloves when working in or around areas where poison ivy grows, and using barriers or decontamination products designed for poison ivy, may help prevent exposure and reduce the risk of rashes.
In the event of a contact incident, it is also important to seek medical attention promptly to ensure proper care and treatment. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides guidelines for the treatment of contact dermatitis due to poison ivy, which includes avoiding activities that may spread the oil and seeking medical help if signs or symptoms persist or worsen.