CATERPILLARS

Identifying marks Some have hairs or spines that can irritate, through envenomation or by breaking off and lodging in the skin. Their cocoons may cause urticaria. Emergency measures

For eye injuries, seek medical assistance immediately. For body injuries, remove affected clothing and use sticky tape to remove hairs. Wash with soap and warm water, pat dry and use antiseptic cream or powder. Apply a cold pack. Use pain-relief medication and antihistamine if needed. Lingering effects

A feeling of splinters with moderate burning pain, often accompanied by rashes and/or welts. Itching, swelling and small blisters may persist for a few days. If hairs are inhaled, seek medical advice.

Action needed?

Vigilance in the garden and at schools where they may drop from trees, especially eucalypts. Use protective clothing if you are handling hairy caterpillars.