Attention, risk of caterpillar! So Braunschweig protects itself from the oak processionary spinner

Attention, risk of caterpillar! So Braunschweig protects itself from the oak processionary spinner

Braunschweig, Deutschland - Summer is there and not only brings the sun and good mood, but also an unwanted visitor: the oak processionary spinner. The charming but dangerous caterpillars are increasingly moving into Braunschweig, where they are active from May to the end of July or early August. These little guys can be found primarily on oaks and from the third larval stage they are equipped with toxic brain hair that can be extremely problematic for allergy sufferers. As reports [news38.de] (https://www.news38.de/braunschweig/article3005384/braunschweig-news-oheiche-proofessionSpinner-plague-plague-plague-plague-set test-zurueck.html), the symptoms of a allergic reaction to itchy flashiness to breathing problems are diverse rich.

With the blossoming of nature and longing for fresh air, walks outdoors are now particularly popular. But be careful! The fine burning hair of the oak processionary spinner, which are filled with the Thaumetopoein nettle poison, can trigger violent skin and respiratory reactions even with easy contact. Especially in recent years, due to mild winter and rising temperatures, the oak processionary spinner in Germany has strongly gained in distribution, as netdoktor.de. Children, walkers and residents in forest areas with oak stock are particularly at risk.

meaning of caterpillar fighting

In order to counteract the increased danger, the city of Braunschweig takes measures to combat caterpillars. Raupnester in sensitive areas such as schools, daycare centers and old people's homes are removed within 24 hours. This is done within 48 hours in residential areas. In the first half of May, the city plans to treat affected areas with harmless nematodes. Citizens are also asked to observe the signs provided and to stay away from being closed off so as not to get in direct contact with the animals or their nests.

If oak procession spinners are suspected, residents can inform the city administration by phone or email. It should be emphasized that only affected oaks should be reported because other trees are not at risk. Despite extensive clarification, however, there can be easily confusion with harmless caterpillars or spinning moths.

health risks

The consequences of contact with the hen hair can be serious. The symptoms range from rashes, such as raupenmatitis, which shows itself in uncovered parts of the body, to serious breathing difficulties. The throat, face, arms and legs are particularly affected, where squaddling and itchy bubbles can form. Allergic reactions often occur within minutes and in rare cases can even lead to an anaphylactic shock. It is therefore advisable to be extremely careful, as the AOK explains.

The oak processionary moth is a clearly annoying companion of this summer time in Braunschweig. So that the joy of the warm days does not become cloudy, it is important to be vigilant and take the necessary precautions. Avoiding your own contact with the caterpillars and acting immediately in case of doubt can help to avoid unpleasant encounter.