9-year-old hospitalized after encounter with poisonous caterpillar in Haifa area

A 9-year-old boy was hospitalized after coming into contact with a 'pine processionary' caterpillar.

A 9-year-old boy from the Haifa area was hospitalized after being exposed to the pine processionary caterpillar, a venomous caterpillar that is especially common this season. The boy arrived at the pediatric emergency room suffering from significant swelling, pain, and itching in the face and hands after playing near a pine tree.

Also known as "Twai the Procession"

Experts explain that this caterpillar, also known as the "procession moth," is very common at this time of year and is often found on pine trees. It can reach about 4 centimeters in length, and is characterized by an orange-brown color with black stripes and tiny hairs that may contain a strong toxin. The larvae are known to move in convoys on the ground as part of their pupation process.

Direct or indirect contact

Dr. Bashir Nasrallah, director of the pediatric department at Bnei Zion, where the child was treated, warns that direct or indirect contact with the caterpillar's hairs may cause allergic reactions of varying intensity. In mild cases, local treatment is sufficient, but in some cases the reaction may be more severe and pose a real danger.
Possible symptoms include skin irritation, swelling, pain, and itching. Eye exposure can cause serious corneal damage and even chronic inflammation. Pets, especially dogs, are also very sensitive to this larva and may suffer from serious symptoms, including a risk of tongue necrosis and even death.

The child was initially treated in the pediatric emergency room and later hospitalized due to the severity of his condition, after consultation with an allergy and immunology specialist. After several days of hospitalization, his condition improved and he was discharged home.

prevention

The medical center emphasizes the importance of preventing exposure to these larvae, especially among children and pets. Recommendations include avoiding direct contact with the larvae or nests on the trees, avoiding playing around pine trees where the larvae have been observed, and wearing long clothing and gloves when hiking or working in the garden.

Have you been exposed? What do you do?

In case of exposure, it is recommended to stay away from the larvae, wash the skin thoroughly with soap and water, change clothes and wash them. In case of eye contact, consult an ophthalmologist as soon as possible. In cases of a significant allergic reaction, seek medical attention without delay.
"Awareness of danger and vigilance may prevent serious injuries," the doctors emphasize.