Oak processionary moth: Avoid rashes in humans and animals

The caterpillar of the oak processionary moth can cause a rash, breathing problems and skin irritation. We explain how you can avoid this.

The oak processionary moth (Thaumetopoea processionea L.) is not only a pest on oaks, 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 not only affects humans, but also dogs, other pets, and wildlife.

Avoid rash from the oak processionary moth

Below are possible symptoms of oak processionary moth contact and tips on how to avoid them. Then it should be about the endangerment of our four-legged companions. If you want to know more about the

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Oak processionary moth: rash and other symptoms

If the stinging hairs of the caterpillars get on unprotected skin areas, they get caught and can become one trigger an overly sensitive reaction of the immune system, because they contain the nettle poison Thaumetopoein. One then speaks of caterpillar dermatitis or erucism. Itching, sores, 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 airways, they are irritated, and if there is a 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. An allergic shock can only occur in individual cases.

Avoid skin irritation and breathing difficulties from the EPS

The caterpillars of the oak processionary moth pose a health and hygienic danger not only from the third larval stage and up to their pupation. On her body and in the web of nests there are stinging hairs that are barbed and can cause severe skin and respiratory irritation. Even years-old web nests can still produce this effect. And because the hair is very light and flies around with the wind, it also accumulates in the 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 can allergic reactions from the oak processionary moth be avoided?

• Read this article about the Fighting and removing the oak processionary mothin order to be well informed about the appearance and development of the spinner.
• Forest workers, road builders and arborists, landscape maintenance companies and pest control companies belong to the risk group for contact with the stinging hair. These should keep their eyes open especially when they are near oak trees.
• Even in residential areas such as parks, sports fields and playgrounds, on hiking trails or school playgrounds, an infestation can occur on individual trees, which could then endanger many passers-by.
• If you discover a nest, report it to the responsible regulatory or green space office so that your fellow citizens can be warned or Control measures are initiated.
• If the nest is on your private property, avoid the vicinity or hire a pest control company.
• Avoid populated nests of oak processionary moths as much as possible and do not try to remove caterpillars and webs yourself.
• Felling or burning infested plants causes the stinging hairs to spread with the wind, which should be avoided.
• If you have to be near populated nests, wear long clothing and gloves to cover as much skin as possible.
• Do not touch the caterpillars and webs.
• Wash your clothes at 60 ° C and shower yourself thoroughly if you have been in the vicinity of a nest.

Oak processionary moth dangerous for dogs and other pets?

Now all pet owners should take notice! The stinging hairs of the oak processionary moth are also dangerous for dogs and other pets. Although the skin of the animals is largely protected by the fur, the caterpillars are Oak processionary moths sniffed or eaten out of curiosity or the animals roam on walks contaminated undergrowth. 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 share your suspicions with the veterinarian to encourage proper treatment. You should also carefully check whether there is a living nest where your four-legged friend was harmed. You should then report this if possible in order to prevent further damage from other strollers, pets, free-range cats and also wild animals.

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