Attention, oak processionary moth: summer brings health risks!

Attention, oak processionary moth: summer brings health risks!

Summer is approaching and feeling it is not only a pleasure, but also a small challenge that awaits us in Braunschweig. Spring fever brings many people outside to enjoy the bright colors of life. But the warm season also has its pitfalls: the oak processionary moth. These native caterpillars are active from May to the end of July or beginning of August and therefore have a permanent place in the northern German summer landscape. What makes them so dangerous?

The pests are only found on oak trees and from the third larval instar they develop their poisonous stinging hairs. These fine hairs are at the heart of their danger. The nettle poison thaumetopoein, which is found in it, can trigger a number of allergic reactions. Symptoms range from itchy rashes and redness to conjunctivitis, sore throats and even asthma attacks. This makes encounters with these caterpillars a potential danger, especially for risk groups such as children playing or walkers. Anyone who lives in affected forest areas or is regularly outdoors should be particularly careful, as the stinging hairs can be spread by the wind and cause problems even without direct contact with the caterpillars.

Prevention and instructions for action

The city of Braunschweig has taken measures to ensure that citizens are well informed and protected. Caterpillar nests are removed within 24 hours in sensitive areas such as schools, daycare centers, hospitals and retirement homes, and within 48 hours in residential areas. In severely affected areas, nematodes, which are harmless to humans and help control the caterpillar population, should also be used in the first half of May. But the population is also in demand: Evidence of an infestation can be reported directly to the city on 0531/470-1, 0531/115 or by email to buergertelefon@braunschweig.de. It is important to only report oak trees that are actually affected, as other trees are not affected.

The symptoms of contact with the stinging hairs are often unpleasant and can range from caterpillar dermatitis, which presents as itchy wheals and blisters, to respiratory problems. Contact with the hairs can lead to such reactions within 15 to 60 minutes, particularly affecting exposed areas of the body such as the face, neck and arms. In severe cases, these reactions can even lead to anaphylactic shock, which must be taken particularly seriously if contact is suspected.

What should be done?

• Abgesperrte Bereiche meiden und Warnhinweise beachten.
• Direkten Kontakt mit den Raupen und deren Nester vermeiden.
• Im Fall von Beschwerden oder Verdacht auf Kontakt umgehend einen Arzt aufsuchen.
• Die Stadt bzgl. eines Befalls kontaktieren – nur befallene Eichen melden.

Overall, it is advisable to have a good knack for dealing with nature correctly during this time. Relaxing in nature can be pure pleasure, as long as you are aware of the dangers. Braunschweig becomes a colorful place to experience, but the oak processionary moths are currently in the starting blocks. Be attentive and enjoy the summer – safely and carefree.