The Brown Tail Moth Caterpillar has quickly settled into Island life, but the fine hairs it spreads are causing nasty rashes.
At least six families at La Petite Ruette have complained of red, itchy skin, streaming eyes and asthma-like symptoms – but as nothing can be found to treat the insect, nothing can be found to treat the symptoms.
The caterpillar settles on all kinds of shrubbery and can cause mass defoliation to trees and bushes.
Its fine hairs are easily blown around in the wind and can settle on pets, clothes and washing lines – contaminating and causing reactions which can last anything up to ten days.
Once the rash subsides, the skin remains prickly and uncomfortable.
