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Itchy emergency situation in Aalen: oak processionary moth unsettles citizens!
Itchy skin rashes in Aalen caused by oak processionary moths: symptoms, protective measures and current developments in the Ostalbkreis.
Itchy emergency situation in Aalen: oak processionary moth unsettles citizens!
In Aalen, numerous people complained about itchy rashes after the Pink Bowl event in the Centus Arena last weekend. Those affected included players, employees and 4,200 visitors. The suspicion of the cause of these allergic reactions quickly fell on the caterpillars of the oak processionary moth, which are currently widespread in the Ostalb district Swabian Post reported.
All age groups are affected, especially children, who are particularly sensitive to the caterpillars' stinging hairs. This hair can be carried over long distances of up to 500 meters in certain weather conditions, increasing the risk of contact. In the last two weeks, an increasing number of cases of caterpillar dermatitis have been recorded at the Ostalb Clinic, forcing the clinic to take measures to protect its employees and patients, including mowing grass and combating the caterpillars.
Actions to be taken in the region
The city of Aalen has been taking measures against the oak processionary moth since May 2025, but success remains limited. The affected oaks are concentrated primarily in the Greut, Burren and Rohrwang forest areas. In order to ensure the safety of citizens, the Kurt- Früh-Weg and the cycle lane on Rombacher Straße will be closed until further notice.
The oak processionary moth has increased in distribution in recent years. The greatest threat from stinging hairs occurs between late May and July, highlighting the need for close monitoring of the scene in the coming weeks. Symptoms of caterpillar dermatitis can occur in the form of skin rashes, itching, swelling and irritation of mucous membranes.
Health effects and prevention
Contact with the stinging hairs of these caterpillars often results in allergic reactions that can occur within minutes to hours. Typical symptoms include hives, blisters and redness of the skin, especially in areas such as the neck, face, uncovered arms and legs. These unpleasant reactions usually disappear within two days to two weeks. According to the AOK In individual cases, more severe allergic reactions, including anaphylactic shock, can also be observed.
In order to effectively protect themselves from possible contact with the stinging hairs, citizens should avoid affected forest areas, pay attention to information signs and wash their clothing at 60 degrees after spending time outdoors. These practical measures can help protect the health of the population in Aalen and the surrounding area. The situation remains tense and vigilance is called for to prevent the oak processionary moth and its health effects from spreading further.