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The caterpillar of the oak processionary moth can cause a rash, breathing problems and skin irritation. We explain how to avoid this.
The oak processionary moth (Thaumetopoea processionea L.) is not only a pest on oak trees, it is also considered a hygiene pest. The reason for this is the strong allergic reaction that the hair on the body of the caterpillar can trigger. This affects not only humans, but also dogs, other pets, and wildlife.
Prevent Oak Processionary Moth Rash
The following are possible symptoms of contact with the oak processionary moth and tips on how to avoid them. Then it should go to the endangerment of our four-legged companions. If you want to find out more about controlling the oak processionary moth, you will find it here.
Oak processionary moth: rash and other symptoms
If the stinging hairs of the caterpillars get on unprotected parts of the skin, they get caught and can trigger an oversensitive reaction of the immune system because they contain the nettle toxin thaumetopoein. One then speaks of caterpillar dermatitis or erucism. Itching, skin inflammation, spots or hives are possible symptoms. Such skin reactions should be treated as they can last up to two weeks if left untreated. If stinging hairs get into the respiratory tract, they become irritated, and in the case of relevant previous exposure, it can even lead to shortness of breath. They also cause redness, irritation and swelling in the eyes. In addition to all these symptoms, "general symptoms" are still possible: dizziness, fever and tiredness can occur, for example. Only in isolated cases can an allergic shock occur.
Avoid skin irritation and breathing difficulties from the EPS
The caterpillars of the oak processionary moth pose a he alth and hygiene hazard not only from the third larval stage and until they pupate. On their bodies and in the web nests there are stinging hairs thatwhich are equipped with barbs and are capable of causing severe skin and respiratory irritation. Even years-old cob nests can still cause this effect. And because the hairs are very light and fly with the wind, they also accumulate in nearby undergrowth where people and animals can come into contact with them. In order to avoid allergic reactions in connection with the oak processionary moth, you should heed the following recommendations for action.
How to avoid allergic reactions to the oak processionary moth?
- Read this article on controlling and removing the oak processionary moth for the best information on the occurrence and evolution of the moth.
- The risk group for contact with stinging hairs includes, for example, forest workers, road builders and arborists, landscape maintenance companies and pest control companies. These should especially keep their eyes peeled when near oak trees.
- Even in settlement areas such as parks, sports fields and playgrounds, on hiking trails or schoolyards, an infestation can occur on individual trees, which could then endanger many passers-by.
- If you discover a nest, report it to the responsible public order or green space office so that your fellow citizens can be warned or countermeasures can be initiated.
- If the nest is on your private property, avoid it or hire a pest control company.
- Avoid populated oak processionary moth nests and do not try to remove caterpillars and webs yourself.
- Cluttering or burning infested plants spreads the stinging hairs with the wind, which should be avoided.
- If you must be near populated nests, wear long clothing and gloves that cover as much skin as possible.
- Do not touch the caterpillars and webs.
- Wash your clothes at 60°C and give yourself a good shower after you have been around a nest.
Oak processionary moth dangerous for dogs and other pets?
Now all pet owners should sit up and take notice! The stinging hairs of the oak processionary moth are also dangerous for dogs and other pets. The skin of the animals is largely protected by the fur, howeverthe caterpillars of the oak processionary moth are sniffed or eaten out of curiosity, or the animals roam through contaminated undergrowth on walks. This can lead to severe inflammation in the nose and mouth area of the four-legged friend. If your pet is showing symptoms and has been around oak trees, you can voice your suspicion to the vet to encourage proper treatment. You should also carefully investigate whether there is a living nest where your four-legged friend was injured. You should then report this if possible to avert further damage from other walkers, pets, loose cats and wild animals.
You can find out here how to fight the oak processionary moth in an emergency.
