Attention, Braunschweig! The oak processionary spinners are so dangerous!

Attention, Braunschweig! The oak processionary spinners are so dangerous!

Braunschweig, Deutschland - Summer approaches and brings Braunschweig to new life. Many are drawn to nature, but an uninvited society has also set off: the oak processionary spinners. These dreaded caterpillars are active in the region from May to the end of July or early August and are mainly hidden in oaks. But be careful! From the third larvae stage, they develop toxic burner hair that should not be underestimated.

The dangers associated with contact with these caterpillars should not be underestimated. Allergic reactions can be expressed in the form of itchy rashes, redness and even breathing difficulties. Especially children who play outdoors, as well as walkers and forest visitors are particularly at risk, such as netdoktor . The inhalation of the fine burner hair can also irritate the upper respiratory tract and lead to shortness of breath in preloaded people.

What to do with oak processionary spinners?

The city of Braunschweig proactively takes action against the caterpillars and removes nests in sensitive areas such as schools, daycare centers, hospitals and old people's homes within 24 hours. In residential areas, the distance is even within 48 hours. Particular caution is also required in more affected areas where the city plans to treat them with nematodes - a measure that is harmless to humans. Information on an infestation should be taken seriously, and closed areas must be avoided.

The dangerous broken hairs break off slightly and can be spread through the wind. It is therefore advisable to always pay attention to signs of an infestation when staying in nature. Suspected cases can be reported directly to the city by citizens who provide an email address and telephone numbers: buergerefon@braunschweig.de , 0531/470-1 and 0531/115.

The symptoms at a glance

When contacting the burner hair, the symptoms are diverse. The uncovered parts of the body such as neck, face and arms are most often affected. Typical signs of an allergy are whispering, blisters and intensely itchy rashes. Acute conjunctivitis can also occur and, in rare cases, severe allergic reactions can occur up to an anaphylactic shock, which makes the situation even more critical, as the AOK emphasizes in its article.

The right behavior can help to minimize the dangers. Direct contact with the caterpillars or their nests should be avoided. In addition, the rooms and furniture outdoors, such as grilling or picnic, should be regularly checked for the small plague.

When the temperatures rise and nature wakes up, mindfulness is increasingly asked. Enjoy the nice summer days and stay safe!