Health risk from oak processionary spinners: How to protect yourself!

Health risk from oak processionary spinners: How to protect yourself!

The oak processionary moth (Thaumetopoea Processionrea) brings great health concerns this year, especially in the Pankow district. As the Berlin district office Pankow were increasingly observed in oaks in 2023. These nests can be found not only in public green, but also in the immediate vicinity of residential complexes, playgrounds, schools and recreation areas. This increases the risk of health risks for residents.

The caterpillars of the oak processionary spinner represent a serious threat, since from the third larvae stage they develop fine brain hair that contain a nettle poison. This poison can trigger rashes, eye irritation and itching in humans. In severe cases, even breathing difficulties or allergic reactions are possible. Children and older people as well as people with existing respiratory diseases are particularly at risk.

Caution in dealing with caterpillars

The district office Pankow asks the population for increased caution in dealing with the caterpillars and their stove. If infestation is suspected, affected trees and areas, especially with children or pets, should be avoided. When contacting the burner hair, it is advisable to change and wash the affected clothing immediately. The Federal Environment Agency recommends a professional removal of the nests, since independent control measures are not recommended.

The broken hair break off slightly and can be spread over the wind, so that even old or abandoned nests can still be dangerous. It is important to distinguish the nests of the oak processionary spinner from which harmlessly web moths. While the spinning moth caution are bright and hair of disease, the caterpillars of the oak processionary spinner are strongly hairy.

measures to combat

In Pankow, property owners are responsible for organizing defense measures, and these should only be carried out by trained specialists. Combating can be fought by suctioning the caterpillars or nests. However, the use of chemical insecticides should be avoided unless there is no other way out. The Federal Office also advises to set up warning signs in forest areas and build barriers to protect people from the dangers.

The spread of the oak processionary moth is not just a local, but a nationwide problem. There are mass increases in several federal states, especially in the northeast, southwest and in parts of North Rhine-Westphalia. However, occasional declines of the populations can also be observed. SPIEGEL can cause forestry problems.