Excursions and work in the forest can have unpleasant consequences for humans and animals from the end of April to the end of June. In Central Europe, this is precisely the time when oak processionary moth caterpillars develop. These caterpillars have special stinging hairs that contain a toxin which can cause skin and systemic reactions in humans. In an article in the Austrian Medical Journal, Dr. Tamara Kopp provides information about caterpillar dermatitis.

Contact with poisonous hairs of the oak processionary moth causes skin irritation

Caterpillars of the oak processionary moth can be found on some oak trees, especially after warm, dry winters. These caterpillars have special stinging or poisonous hairs that use the protein poison thaumetopoein to ward off enemies. On contact, this leads to the release of histamine in humans and the formation of wheals. The clinical picture includes urticaria, headaches, conjunctivitis, pharyngitis, fatigue, nausea, dizziness or fever, and even bronchospasm with corresponding dyspnoea.

What is tricky is that the poison remains active for up to 7 years and the hairs can also be spread through the air.

Precautionary measures in case of suspected contact with the poisonous hairs of the oak processionary moth

In the event of suspected or actual contact with these caterpillars or their hairs, a careful change of clothes and a shower bath with hair cleansing should be carried out as soon as possible. Clothes should be washed immediately and the skin should not be rubbed or otherwise mechanically damaged. Initial swelling or itching can be alleviated with a cold compress. Dr. Tamara Kopp recommends local therapies containing polidocanol and topical glucocorticoids as well as antihistamines.

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