Acute dermatitis from oak processionary caterpillars in a U.S. military community in Germany

One hundred sixty-five soldiers and civilians from the U.S. military community in Heidelberg, Germany, sought treatment for acute dermatitis from June 26 through July 2, 1995. This was 144 more than the expected number of 21 cases based on a background rate of 3 cases per day. Cases consisted of individuals who presented with a painful, itching rash distributed widely about the body but concentrated in the upper half. Urticarial hairs from oak processionary caterpillars (Thaumetopoea processionea L.) (Lepidoptera: Thaumetopoeidae) were eventually identified as the cause. This article is the first published report that documents the military medical importance of these caterpillars in Europe. The implications and measures needed to resolve future outbreaks quickly and effectively are discussed.