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Venomous Caterpillar In Oxford

The Hickory Tussock Moth caterpillar excretes venom which can cause a rash similar to the symptoms of poison ivy.

A deceptively cute breed of caterpillar could leave you with a rash if you come into contact with it.

Manager of Health Protection with Oxford County Peter Heywood says this breed of caterpillar is better admired from a distance.

"Well this cute white and fluffy caterpillar is known as the Hickory Tussock Moth caterpillar. It's a caterpillar that can excrete venom on contact that can cause rash like symptoms similar to poison ivy."

If you have kids who frequently handle creepy crawlies and you think they may have touched one, Heywood says the best thing to do is wash up.

"If you do come in contact with this caterpillar it's important you wash the area with soap and water and apply a lotion to reduce the severity of the itching in and redness."

These caterpillars are typically found in our area between July and September.

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