Tourists Hit by Allergic Reactions on Curonian Spit

The cause of this was the caterpillar tracks of the pine forest silkworm: contact with their microscopic hairs causes burning, itching, and rash.

Consensus

Tourists visiting the Curonian Spit in Kaliningrad Oblast reported strong allergic reactions.
The allergic reactions were caused by contact with caterpillars of the pine processionary silkmoth.
The caterpillars have toxic microscopic hairs that cause skin irritation and dermatitis.
Symptoms include severe itching, red rash, swelling, and in some cases, asthma attacks or anaphylactic shock.
Medical treatment such as injections and topical medications was required for some affected individuals.
Authorities advised wearing closed clothing and checking the body after visiting natural areas.
The pine processionary moth is present in Moscow and the Moscow region, as well as across Europe.

The pine processionary moth is an invasive species that periodically experiences population outbreaks. — vm
Birds like cuckoos can eat the caterpillars safely by breaking off their toxic hairs on stones or branches. — vm
The caterpillars contain taumetopoein, peptides, enzymes like hyaluronidase and phospholipase A, and biogenic amines such as histamine. — vm
Repeated contact may lead to the body producing IgE antibodies, increasing the severity of future reactions. — vm
The condition is called lepidopterism or caterpillar dermatitis. — vm
One tourist required an intravenous drip after being exposed to the caterpillars. — vesti
The most dangerous stage of the moth's development is the emergence of caterpillars. — vesti
The Ministry of Health of Kaliningrad Oblast issued a public reminder about preventive measures. — vesti