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school trip caterpillar
School Trip Drama: What You Need to Know About the Dangerous Caterpillar!
A school trip ended with 13 children in hospital. The reason: contact with the oak processionary moth. What exactly happened and how can you protect your children from this danger? Read on to find out more. Need immediate advice? Contact us for a quick and competent assessment of the situation.
The topic, briefly and concisely
The oak processionary moth poses a real danger to school trips, particularly due to its allergenic stinging hairs.
GoTuro minimises the EPS risk through careful travel planning and informing travellers, which increases safety and satisfaction.
Preventive measures and swift response upon contact are crucial to avoiding health issues and ensuring safe school trips, which can reduce the number of illnesses by up to 80%.
After the school trip to the hospital: Find out all about the oak processionary caterpillar, how to protect your children, and which immediate measures you need to take.
The Incident and Its Significance
Overview of the Incident in Rünenberg BL
13 children had to be hospitalised after a school trip.
Suspected contact with oak processionary caterpillars.
The Growing Importance of the Oak Processionary Moth Issue in Switzerland
Increasing spread and health risks.
Need for awareness and prevention.
Identifying the Oak Processionary Moth: Understanding Biology and Risks
Anaphylactic shock.
First aid and medical treatment
Recommendations for contact with stinging hairs.
When to contact a doctor or Tox Info Suisse.
Analysing the Rünenberg Incident: Learning Lessons for Safe School Trips
//www.hna.de/welt/allergische-reaktion-schulausflug-13-kinder-klinik-krankenhaus-schweiz-eichenprozessionsspinner-93102593.html">Reports from parents show how frightening the situation was for everyone involved. The children continue to receive medical care and psychological support to process the experiences.
This incident clearly highlights that contact with the oak processionary moth can have not only unpleasant but also serious consequences. It is therefore essential to take all necessary measures to prevent such incidents in the future. At GoTuro, we take this responsibility very seriously and are adapting our school trips accordingly.
Affected Children and Their Experiences
Reports from Parents and Those Affected
One child suffered temporary vision loss.
Other children complained of swollen eyes and skin rashes.
Long-term Effects and Recovery Process
Monitoring and treatment of symptoms.
Psychological support as needed.
Climate change encourages spread: Understanding the oak processionary moth infestation
//www.20min.ch/story/allergische-reaktion-darum-sind-eichen-prozessionsspinner-so-gefaehrlich-103116382">The increasing spread is attributed to climatic changes. Warm and dry summers encourage the reproduction of the caterpillars. Climate change thus plays a crucial role in the spread of the oak processionary moth.
It is important to know the geographical spread in order to exercise appropriate caution when planning school trips and excursions. At GoTuro, we take this information into account when selecting our travel destinations and inform our customers about potential risks.
Geographical Distribution in Switzerland
Affected Regions
Basel-Landschaft, Lake Geneva region, Ticino, Valais, Jura, Aargau, Zurich.
Increasing spread due to climatic changes.
Climatic Factors
Warm and dry summers encourage reproduction.
Impact of climate change on spread.
Causes for the Increase in Population
The increase in the oak processionary moth population has various causes. One major factor is the absence of natural predators. However, using nest boxes for blue tits can help to control the population naturally. Blue tits feed on the caterpillars and thereby contribute to biological pest control. Promoting biodiversity in the forest can also help to reduce the population of the oak processionary moth.
Monocultures and weakened oak stands are also more susceptible to infestation by the oak processionary moth. A sustainable forestry approach that focuses on biodiversity can help increase the resilience of forests and reduce infestation. Also, learn about our diverse ideas for school trips.
Causes for the Increase in Population
Lack of Natural Predators
Use of nest boxes for blue tits for biological pest control.
Promotion of natural predators.
Monocultures and Weakened Oak Stands
Increased susceptibility to infestation.
Promotion of biodiversity in the forest.
Implement protective measures: Minimise the risk of oak processionary moths
Preventive Measures and Protection against Oak Processionary Moths Section 05 - Content
Guidelines for Dealing with Oak Processionary Moths
To protect yourself from the oak processionary moth, it's important to follow certain guidelines. Avoid contact with infested trees and maintain a safe distance. Pay attention to warning signs and gather information in advance about the current situation in the area. When working near oaks, wear protective clothing and gloves. Clean yourself thoroughly after contact with potentially infested areas.
When planning school trips and excursions, avoid areas with known infestations or take appropriate protective measures. Inform children and chaperones about the dangers and raise awareness on the topic. At GoTuro, we are happy to support you in planning safe and unforgettable journeys.
Guidelines for Dealing with Oak Processionary Moths
Avoiding Contact
Keep a distance from infested trees.
Observe warning signs.
Protective Clothing and Precautions
Wear gloves and protective clothing when working near oaks.
Thorough cleansing after contact.
Control Methods
There are various methods to control the oak processionary moth. Biological control using Bacillus thuringiensis is an environmentally friendly option. Promoting natural predators like blue tits can also help reduce the population. The mechanical removal of nests should be performed by professional companies to ensure safe disposal.
It's important to focus on environmentally friendly methods and consider natural cycles when controlling the oak processionary moth. Sustainable forestry can contribute to increasing forest resilience and reducing infestation. Get informed about our diverse school trip destinations.
Control Methods
Biological Control
Use of Bacillus thuringiensis.
Promotion of natural predators.
Mechanical Removal of Nests
Professional removal by specialised companies.
Safe disposal of nests.
Administering First Aid: What to Do in Case of Oak Processionary Moth Contact?
//www.msn.com/de-ch/nachrichten/news/r%C3%BCnenberg-bl-13-kinder-nach-schulausflug-im-spital-wohl-wegen-dieser-raupe/ar-BB1nd3dR?apiversion=v2&noservercache=1&domshim=1&renderwebcomponents=1&wcseo=1&batchservertelemetry=1&noservertelemetry=1">News about the incident in Rünenberg highlight the importance of being prepared.
Important Points of Contact and Advisory Services
Tox Info Suisse
Emergency number for poisoning cases.
Consultation for allergic reactions.
Doctors and Allergists
Diagnosis and treatment of allergies.
Symptom relief and therapy.
Shaping a Secure Future: Minimising Oak Processionary Moth Risks Together
//www.watson.ch/schweiz/basel-landschaft/901969880-13-kinder-aus-ruenenberg-bl-muessen-nach-schulausflug-ins-spital">Reports from Rünenberg have shown how important it is to be prepared.
At GoTuro, we are actively committed to protecting health and nature. We work closely with experts to provide you with the best possible support. Together, we can create a safe future. Find out more about our school trips.
Looking to the Future
Research and Development of New Control Methods
Innovative approaches to reducing population.
Development of resistant oak species.
Joint Efforts for a Safe Environment
Collaboration between authorities, citizens, and experts.
Protection of health and nature.
Planning Safe School Trips: GoTuro Provides Comprehensive Support
The safety of your children is important to us. At GoTuro, we offer comprehensive support in planning safe school trips. We consider the current spread of the oak processionary moth and carefully select our destinations. Our experienced staff will inform you about potential risks and give you valuable tips for prevention. We work closely with experts to provide you with the best possible support.
Our school trips are not only safe but also unforgettable. We offer a variety of exciting and educational programmes that are tailored to your students' needs. From adventure trips to cultural discovery tours, there's something for everyone. Contact us today to plan your bespoke school trip. We look forward to helping you!
Plan your next Schulreise Raupe with GoTuro now and benefit from our expertise and commitment to your safety. We will ensure your trip is an unforgettable experience. Also, visit our page about class trip destinations for inspiration for your next journey.
Act now: Contact GoTuro for your safe school trip!
More useful links
At the Julius Kühn-Institut (JKI), you will find information on plant protection and forestry.
The Bavarian State Institute for Forestry and Forestry Economics (LWF) offers information on forestry in Bavaria.
The Hessian Ministry for the Environment, Climate Protection, Agriculture and Consumer Protection (HMUKLV) provides information on forestry measures in Hesse.
FAQ
What risks does the Oak Processionary Moth (EPS) pose for school trips?
Contact with the stinging hairs of the EPS can lead to skin and eye irritation, breathing difficulties, and in rare cases, allergic shock. Children are particularly at risk.
How can GoTuro minimise the risk of EPS during school trips?
GoTuro considers the current distribution of the EPS when planning school trips, selects safe destinations, and provides information on behaviour guidelines and protective measures.
What immediate actions should be taken if in contact with EPS stinging hairs?
Thoroughly showering with water, changing clothes, and if necessary, seeking medical help are important immediate actions after contact with EPS stinging hairs.
Where can I find current information on the distribution of EPS in Switzerland?
Current information on the distribution of the EPS can be obtained from the cantonal forest protection officers and on the websites of Tox Info Suisse.
How does climate change contribute to the spread of the EPS?
Warm and dry summers promote the multiplication of the EPS, leading to an increased spread in various regions of Switzerland.
What role do natural enemies play in combating the EPS?
Promoting natural enemies such as blue tits, which eat the caterpillars, can help control the EPS population naturally.
What should teachers and accompanying persons know about the EPS before a school trip?
Teachers and accompanying persons should be informed about the dangers of the EPS, the symptoms of contact, and the correct behaviour rules to ensure the children's safety.
Does GoTuro offer special travel packages for teachers who want to learn about the risks?
Yes, GoTuro offers travel packages for teachers tailored to the needs of school classes and include information on risk minimisation.
