We have seen an increase in cases linked to the oak processionary moth (OPM) caterpillar, and we’d like to warn patients to be aware.
OPM caterpillars have been reported in growing numbers across the Southeast this year, including here in Walton-on-Thames, following the warm spring weather. They live almost exclusively on oak trees and have toxic, barbed hairs. Contact with the hairs – or breathing them in if they’re carried on the wind – can cause:
- Itchy skin rashes
- Eye irritation
- Sore throat
- Breathing difficulties, in more serious cases
The caterpillars have a grey body, dark head, and long white hairs, and move in the nose-to-tail processions that give them their name. Their nests are white and silk-like, usually on oak trunks and branches, and become discoloured and brown as summer goes on.
For more information, please see BBC News and the Forestry Commission’s guidance on GOV.UK
If you or your child has been in contact with an OPM caterpillar or nest:
- For mild skin or eye irritation, your local pharmacist can advise on relief
- For a more serious reaction – such as breathing difficulties or a severe rash – contact us or call 111
- If a pet has been affected, contact a vet
Please don’t touch or approach caterpillars or nests and keep children and pets away from them.
If you spot a nest or caterpillars, you can report it to Forest Research via TreeAlert at treealert.forestresearch.gov.uk.
