Oak Processionary Moth: Nests on highways are now being removed!

Oak Processionary Moth: Nests on highways are now being removed!

The warm months not only bring sun and a good mood, but also special challenges. One of these challenges is the oak processionary moth, which has spread increasing fear and terror in recent years. The Bayreuth branch of the federal Autobahn GmbH has currently started removing the nests of this dreaded caterpillar. Informed about their actions Franconian day. The specialist company will use special equipment to operate on the A 73, A 70, A 9 and A 93 motorways as well as at parking lots and rest areas.

But what is actually behind this little monster and why is its use so important? The oak processionary moth, whose caterpillars are mainly found in oak trees, can cause massive health problems. Contact with the stinging hairs of these caterpillars often causes skin rashes, also known as caterpillar dermatitis. This manifests itself as hives, blisters and itching, especially on uncovered areas of the body such as the neck and arms. The symptoms usually disappear after one to two weeks AOK explained.

Protective measures and implementation

In order to counter the dangers that the oak processionary moth brings with it, the use of sprays is deliberately avoided in order to protect other insects. The control company has already started vacuuming the nests on the A 73 near Forchheim. Particular caution is required: Employees wear protective clothing to protect themselves from the harmful stinging hairs. The measures are expected to be completed by the end of July.

The focus of the fight includes the following routes:

• A 73 zwischen den Anschlussstellen Möhrendorf und Breitengüßbach
• A 70 zwischen Hallstadt und dem Autobahndreieck Bayreuth/Kulmbach
• A 93 bei Weiden
• A 9 zwischen den Anschlussstellen Pegnitz und Bad Berneck/Himmelkron

It is interesting that the order of processing is coordinated with the development cycle of the caterpillars. Particularly sensitive areas such as parking and rest areas are given priority because they represent a contact point for many people. The mass appearance of the oak processionary moth requires quick and effective measures, as the caterpillars can cause allergic reactions and breathing difficulties, as well Treptow-Köpenick Health Department emphasized.

Health risks and prevention

The caterpillar hairs contain the nettle toxin thaumetopoein, which not only leads to skin reactions but can also cause allergic symptoms such as itching, dizziness or even anaphylactic shock. Inhaling the fine hairs can irritate the upper respiratory tract and lead to shortness of breath in people who have already been exposed. Contact can be particularly dangerous for children playing and people relaxing in nature.

To minimize these health risks, it is recommended to avoid direct contact with the caterpillars. If the reaction is severe, you should always consult a doctor and discuss contact with the caterpillars. The control measures are an important step to ensure both the safety of road users and the health of the population.

Even if major traffic disruptions are not expected, there may be isolated restrictions, but these are urgently needed to get the oak processionary moth under control. The ongoing measures are a controlled step to prevent the spread of these risky caterpillars.