Eichen processionary spinners threaten Spandau: pleasant rash?

Eichen processionary spinners threaten Spandau: pleasant rash?

Wilhelm-von-Siemens-Park, Spandau, Berlin, Deutschland - In the past few weeks, the oak processionary spinner in Berlin-Spandau, especially in the Wilhelm-von-Siemens-Park, has spread greatly. The district office advises the population to avoid the affected areas such as schools, daycare centers, streets and private properties nearby. The office has already set up information signs and commissioned companies to combat the infestation. However, a complete elimination in the park is excluded because the caterpillars will continue to develop. Before that, a strong infestation in the Volkspark Jungfernheide in Charlottenburg had been reported, which underlines the urgency of the situation.

The oak processionary moth (Thaumetopoea Processionea) is native to Central Europe. His eggs are stored on oak trees, and the caterpillars begin to eat the leaves in spring. The animals are particularly feared by their hen hair, which can trigger allergic reactions in humans. Contact with these fine hairs often leads to skin problems such as itching, skin infections and even shortness of breath in sensitive people. Therefore, the district office has recommended comprehensive precautions: caterpillars and nests should not be touched, and the leash obligation in green areas should be strictly observed. It is also advisable to clean the clothes and keep windows and doors closed after a visit to the park. However, there is no obligation to report for private property owners.

allergic reactions and symptoms

The contact with the caterpillar fillage can lead to skin rashes known as caterpillar matitis. The neck, face and uncovered arms and legs are usually affected. Symptoms include squads, blisters, reddening of the skin and intensive itching, which subside again after two days to two weeks. In some cases, allergic reactions such as hives (urticaria) can occur, which is usually visible 15 to 60 minutes after the contact and expresses itself through reddish, itchy wheels. Swelling on the eyelids are also possible. When contacted with the eyes, acute conjunctivitis can occur, in rare cases even a corneal inflammation.

The causes of the increasing spread of the oak processionary spinner are in the increasing temperatures and the absence of night frosts. The oak processionary spinner is particularly evident in the northeast and southwest of Germany as well as in parts of North Rhine-Westphalia. The fine feret -on fierces of the caterpillars containing the Thaumetopoin nettle poison are a serious health risk.