Eichen processionary spinner in Havelland: Red alarm level for health!

In the Havelland, the health risk from oak processionary moths increases. Control measures and risks are analyzed.
In the Havelland, the health risk from oak processionary moths increases. Control measures and risks are analyzed. (Symbolbild/NAG)

Eichen processionary spinner in Havelland: Red alarm level for health!

While summer in Germany unfolds with its warm days, communities and citizens are increasingly struggling with an undesirable side effect. The

The health risk not only remains during the infestation. Even after the caterpillar disappears, the hair and larval skins that remain behind are a potential threat. This is also confirmed by the Environmental Federal Agency , which indicates that symptoms such as reddening of the skin, eye irritation and even allergic shock reactions can occur.

control measures in the region

In the Hovelland district, the matter is taken seriously. A list of affected district roads was created here to plan targeted control measures. 726 oaks have already been treated in May, with both chemical and biological measures being used. An interesting aspect is the consideration of the To use caterpillar population. However, it remains to be seen how effective this approach will actually be.

The funds are also not to be neglected. The average costs for combating are around 5000 euros per year for soil fighting and 7,000 euros for the suction of the caterpillars. The region spends a total of around 12,000 euros on these measures annually.

health risks and precautionary measures

The oak processionary spinner has increased significantly in recent years, especially in the northeast, southwest and in North Rhine-Westphalia. The increased infestation in cities such as Rhinow has led to clues about this health risk and forwarded to specialist companies for suction. The SPIEGEL indicates that these caterpillars are also a health risk and low human use can.

In order to protect the population, warning signs and barriers should be set up in affected forest areas. Experts recommend that chemical or biological control means only use alternatives to avoid damage to non -target types.

The essential question remains: How can you fought successfully against the spread of the oak processionary spinner without endangering the environment and at the same time protecting people's health? The discussion about sustainable control measures is in full swing and it will be exciting to observe which solutions will ultimately prove to be effective.

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OrtHavelland, Deutschland
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