INSECT BITES AND STINGS

Saddleback & Puss Caterpillars

• Most people know that bees, ants, hornets, and wasps can sting. Only a few people know that caterpillars also belong in the group of stinging insects.
• Some caterpillars and the larvae of certain moths possess stinging 'hairs.' These hairs are a defense mechanism against predators.
• When these 'hairs' are touched, they easily enter the skin and break off. The feeling has been described as a needle prick.
• Just like a bee sting, depending on the person, the reaction to these bites may be local redness, swelling, burning or itching, possibly progressing to more severe reactions.
• Persons who are more hypersensitive may experience severe swelling, nausea, and heightened systemic reactions such as vomiting, hives or a headache.
• Caterpillar hairs going into the eye can cause tearing, irritation, and difficulty with bright lights. In case of an eye exposure, eye irrigation should be performed.
• Swallowing a caterpillar can result in mouth and throat irritation, drooling, difficulty swallowing and hives.
• Stings mostly occur in late summer to the early autumn months.
• If you find a caterpillar on your body, do not brush it off with your hand - use a stick to remove it.

• Place a piece of tape over the sting site and pull it off - don't jerk it off. Do this several times using a different piece of tape each time.
• Wash the area thoroughly with warm soapy water.
• An antihistamine can be taken by mouth. A corticosteroid cream can be applied to the area surrounding the sting.
• The very young, elderly or persons with comprised health prior to the stings are more likely to have a severe reaction.

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