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A third of Kew Gardens is closed to the public today and tomorrow as staff spray pesticide to kill colonies of Oak Processionary Moth.
The moths, which can kill oak trees, have become a major problem across west London. Moth eggs hatched on several trees in Kew's arboretum last month.
The caterpillar has tiny sharp barbed hairs and a toxin which can cause irritation and allergic reactions in people and animals. The caterpillar is in its last stages of development in late May and early June before becoming a moth; this is when it poses the most risk to human health.
Since the moths first appeared in west London, Kew has been working closely with the Forestry Commission, local authorities and others as part of the Outbreak Management Team.
“We have been monitoring the development of the larvae, which has a complicated life cycle. It is important that we and all other local stakeholders work together to control and manage this exotic pest if we are to attempt to eradicate it from the UK,” said a Kew spokeswoman.
Contact with the toxin-containing hairs most commonly causes intensely itchy or painful skin rashes, but can also produce sore throats, eye problems and breathing difficulties.
Dr Roger Gross, regional director of the Health Protection Agency London, said, “Advice is being issued to local GPs and other health professionals to help them to identify when patients have been affected by the caterpillar hairs, and to advise them about appropriate treatment. Anyone with a severe reaction, or who is uncertain what has caused their rash, should consult their GP.”
