More than half of Spain is on alert for a plague of processionary caterpillars, although the case is especially serious in the Community of Madrid. The mild temperatures we have had this winter, the early arrival of spring and the prohibition of using cytosanitary treatments to combat them, have contributed to more.
The hairs that cover this insect are especially stinging, being able to cause painful reactions in children even without touching them. We tell you how to act if we find a procession of caterpillars, and what to do in case of accidental contact.
A lot of caution in the countryside and the mountains
There are several types of caterpillars, but the most common is the caterpillar of the pine or processionary. During the winter, this caterpillar nests in the characteristic pockets in the trees, but when the weather arrives the colonies descend to bury themselves in the ground.
They owe their name to the characteristic way they have to scroll, placing one after another forming a row as a "procession."
Cedars and pines, both very common in our geography, are the trees that feed on their larval state, hence it is common to find them in parks, landscaped and wooded areas, the countryside, and even in the mountains.
This winter has been especially characterized by its mild temperatures, and this fact has led to the natural survival of a greater number of larvae. This is coupled with European restrictions with the use of insecticides in areas such as parks, schools or nursing homes, as their effects could be especially toxic in children and the elderly.
Its "sting" is especially irritating.
The "bite" of the processionary caterpillar is very painful and irritating (although it rarely becomes serious), and children are especially sensitive to it. Further, it is not necessary to touch them to suffer a reaction, because with the simple contact of the stinging hairs transported by the air, the irritation can appear.
In Babies and more Insect bites in babies and children, what to do and how to prevent them?Direct contact with the caterpillar causes skin reactions, pain and itching, especially in the neck, extremedides and palms.
If the contact is indirect, it often appears mucosal irritation, especially in the nose and throat.
How to act if the child comes into contact with this caterpillar
If a contact reaction occurs, it is recommended to act as follows:
Wash the affected area with cold water to take off stinging hairs. From the AEPap they also recommend using a tape of plaster for this purpose.
Apply local cold to reduce inflammation
Not scratch, to avoid worsening the injury
Consult with the pediatrician, since in some cases the bite may require medical supervision and treatment based on antihistamines, anti-inflammatories or cortices
Tips to enjoy a picnic without incident
With the arrival of spring and the high temperatures we are having, one of the favorite plans for families is to spend a day in the countryside or in the mountains, enjoying the outdoors and activities with children.
In Babies and more This spring pollen allergy comes strong: how to recognize and relieve symptoms in childrenBut, since it seems that this year the processionary caterpillars are "stomping", we give you some tips to prevent incidents with these insects during our excursion:
- First, it is important that Children learn to identify such caterpillars by images, and teach them that they should not touch them (not even remotely using sticks).
We can explain that if the caterpillars feel intimidated or attacked they will throw their hairs as darts to defend themselves from danger, so it is also not a good idea to stand near them.
Be aware especially of the youngest children or babies who are already walking, since in your case it is difficult for them to understand our warnings, and their restless and exploratory nature You can bring them into contact with these animals.
Avoid walking or stopping to rest and eat near pines and cedars. Likewise, we must pay special attention to swing or theme parks with large garden areas, recreation areas with tree-lined areas, or roads with these types of trees.
If we step on a caterpillar with shoes, we must try to clean the sole with great caution, since there is a risk of dragging its poisonous filaments with the shoes.
The allergic reaction of caterpillars can be deadly for dogs, especially for puppies. Therefore, if we are enjoying a day in the field with our pet, pay close attention to processionary caterpillars.
Photos | iStock
