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Attention, Braunschweig! Oak processionary moths endanger health in summer
Braunschweig is preparing for the oak processionary moth season: tips for avoiding danger and contact information for those affected.
Attention, Braunschweig! Oak processionary moths endanger health in summer
Summer is approaching and many people are heading outside to enjoy the warm days. While the bright colors of Braunschweig invite you to linger, there is an uninvited companion that becomes active again this time of year: the oak processionary moth. These caterpillars are particularly common in oak forests and can be found in the region from May to late July or early August. The danger they pose should not be underestimated.
From the third larval stage onwards, the caterpillars develop poisonous stinging hairs that can cause severe allergic reactions on contact. According to News38, symptoms such as itchy rashes, redness, conjunctivitis, sore throats and even asthma attacks are known. It is therefore advisable to be careful with the caterpillars and their nests and, above all, to avoid affected areas.
Measures by the city of Braunschweig
The city of Braunschweig has already introduced measures to protect the population. Caterpillar nests in sensitive areas such as schools and retirement homes are removed within 24 hours. In residential areas, removal will take place within 48 hours at the latest. The first half week of May is also the period in which severely affected areas should be treated with harmless nematodes in order to reduce the caterpillar population.
Contact with the city is also guaranteed: If you suspect oak processionary moths, citizens can request help by calling 0531/470-1, 0531/115 or by email at buergertelefon@braunschweig.de. It is important that only infected oak trees should be reported, as other trees are not affected.
Take allergic reactions seriously
The symptoms of an allergic reaction to the oak processionary moth's stinging hairs are varied. According to [AOK]. Inhaling the fine hairs also leads to respiratory irritation and can even cause shortness of breath in people who have been exposed to the virus. It is advisable to react immediately if you come into contact with the stinging hairs and, if necessary, consult a doctor, as in individual cases even more severe allergic reactions, including anaphylactic shock, can occur.
How the occurrence of the oak processionary moth could develop in the future is uncertain. Scientists warn that rising temperatures and a lack of night frosts could encourage the spread of the caterpillars. This development could lead to the plague-like spread of this dangerous butterfly caterpillar not only in Braunschweig, but also in other regions of Germany, as NetDoktor reports.
Risk groups in particular, such as children playing, walkers in wooded areas or users of recreational facilities in the countryside, should be vigilant. It is strongly advised to avoid the cordoned off areas and to act immediately if skin reactions are suspected in order to minimize health risks. This is the only way to enjoy this season without unpleasant surprises.