Attention Braunschweig! Eichen processionary spinners threaten spring joy

Attention Braunschweig! Eichen processionary spinners threaten spring joy

Braunschweig, Deutschland - Summer is just around the corner and with it the bright colors of the Braunschweig spring. Many people are drawn outside to enjoy the warm sun rays. But be careful: the warm season not only brings you in a good mood, but also the oak processionary spinner. This dreaded caterpillar is actively talking to itself in Braunschweig from May to the end of July or early August. The oak processionary spinner is particularly hidden, because the caterpillars can only be found on oaks and develop poisonous brain hair from the third larval stage.

such as news38.de, the allergic reactions to these fine hair can be quite uncomfortable. This includes itchy rashes, redness, conjunctivitis, sore throat, cough and even asthma attacks. In order to eliminate the dangerous nests, the city of Braunschweig has taken measures: in sensitive areas such as schools, daycare centers and hospitals, the nests are removed within 24 hours. In residential areas, removal takes up to 48 hours. In the first half of May, areas should be treated with nematodes that are harmless to humans.

symptoms and dangers

What happens if you come into contact with the hen hair? As AOK, described in detail, affected rashes that are known as caterpillar matitis can develop. Especially the neck, face, arms and legs are at risk. Typical symptoms are bubbles, blisters, reddening of the skin and an intense itching. These reactions can occur 15 to 60 minutes after contact. In particularly severe cases, even allergic reactions up to an anaphylactic shock are possible.

Not only the skin suffers from contact with the burner hair. As netdoktor.de, the fine hairs can also irritate the airways and cause breathing shortage in humans. And that's not all: rarely can you even cause corneal inflammation when you come into contact with your eyes. It is therefore important to avoid locked areas and not to enter any touch with the caterpillar or nests.

precautionary measures and contact points

The city of Braunschweig has given clear recommendations. Anyone who suspects that he has found oak procession spinners should immediately contact the city on 0531/470-1, 0531/115 or by email to Buergerefon@braunschweig.de. However, only affected oak should be reported because other trees are not affected. There is a risk of confusion, for example, with harmless caterpillars or climbing moths.

The oak processionary spinners spread further and further through various factors, not least due to rising temperatures and the lack of night frosts. They can often be found in the northeast and southwest of Germany as well as in parts of North Rhine-Westphalia. Children, walkers, residents in forest areas and even people who store wood for the oven are particularly at risk.

As beautiful as summer in Braunschweig may be, nature always harbors its challenges. So pay attention to where you are and stay safe - the oak processionary spinner is closer than you think!