I saw this on the BBC and thought you should see it:
Health warnings after toxic caterpillar outbreak in London - bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-l...
The Caterpillar is in the London area, and the South East, and likes Oak Trees. Don't go near them, don't go near their nests, don't tough them. There are pictures onnthe BBC news website, together with more details
Very few people touch caterpillars, so I think people are safe, and the BBC are scaring people unnecessarily.
My IT skills on my tablet aren't good, but on the BBC News App under Science and Environment there is a report. One London gardener has already been caught unawares resulting in a swollen face and very bad rash. She was clearing an allotment and she was stood under an Oak Tree infested with the Caterpillars.
Her GP recognised her symptoms and advised her to keep well away from them, or risk an even worse reaction.
Just thought it might be useful to let people know.
I don't myself go round touching caterpillars either if I can avoid it, but you never know where you may find one - served up in the salad made from stuff out of my sister's allotment?
What is worse than finding a caterpillar in your salad? Finding half a caterpillar.Ha ha.
No, I don’t think they are:-). This isn’t the only species of moth with larvae that are considered to be a health hazard, and it’s not the first time this type of warning has gone out. The obvious way to alert the public in general about the risks connected to them is via the media. Also remember that whilst most adults might not be enthused by the sight of a hairy caterpillar, many children are fascinated by such things - myself included when I was a child:-).
inhaling caterpillars is very uncomfortable!
Royal Brompton
Not a very happy Easter for me 
