Over the course of thousands of years, humans have developed reflexes and learned which animals and other things to avoid. However, it’s always a good idea to use caution when you are outside, even though the majority of animals are harmless to people.
One day, during a routine family outing at a little park, Leslie Howe encountered a strange ball-shaped fuzzy creature. Little did she know, this encounter would turn into a painful experience. According to ethnologist Don Hall as mentioned in National Geographic, the sting of this creature feels like a wasp sting but much worse. The pain is immediate and intensifies once the creature sticks to your skin. In some cases, the pain can even extend to your bones. People who have been stung on their hands have reported feeling the pain up to their shoulders, and the discomfort can last for up to twelve hours.
Eric Day, the manager of Virginia Tech’s Insect ID Lab, can attest to the painful effects of the puss caterpillar’s sting. While mowing the lawn at his house in Virginia, he was stung by this peculiar-looking caterpillar. The burning sensation subsided after a day or so, but a blister and an irritated area remained visible for several weeks.
If you find yourself on the wrong end of a puss caterpillar sting, it’s crucial to take immediate action. Start by carefully washing the affected area with soap and water. Use tape to remove any of the caterpillar’s deadly hairs that may be stuck on your skin. If the sting location begins to itch, you can try applying baking powder or hydrocortisone ointment to alleviate the discomfort. However, if the symptoms worsen, it’s important to seek medical help.
While puss caterpillars are rarely deadly, it’s worth noting that their sting can cause anaphylaxis, which is a life-threatening allergic reaction. Therefore, it is crucial to exercise caution and take appropriate measures if you come across one.
Please share this article with others to spread awareness and prevent any potential encounters with the puss caterpillar. Stay safe!
