WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. — The little black insects are all over parts of central Pennsylvania. Spongy moths, formerly known as gypsy moths, recently hatched and are looking for leaves to feed on.
Unfortunately, spongy moths get carried around by the wind and land on people. The caterpillars' bodies have hair-like particles that can get stuck in your skin.
"The spines get in the skin and the proteins that are in the spines are what your immune system is reacting to. In addition to the fact that it is flat-out causing irritation in addition to your immune system reacting to it and causing an allergic reaction," said Dr. Nathaniel Hare, an allergist at UPMC in Williamsport.
Dr. Hare's office started getting calls about spongy moths this week. He says some people have an immediate reaction of hives, while others have more of a delayed reaction of a rash.
It is difficult to avoid spongy moths. Dr. Hare suggests minimizing exposed skin when outside. Another option is using tape.
"Whatever area it was, you can put a piece of tape on there and pull it off, and that might help you get rid of some of the spines, pull some of the spines out so they don't stay in longer and make the problem worse," Dr. Hare said.
Dr. Hare says ice can help, as can over-the-counter creams or sprays. 24-hour allergy pills are another option.
"You can take those by mouth if the itching is really bad to try to help. If the rash is really bad, your doctor may be able to prescribe a stronger steroid cream," Dr. Hare said.
Homeowners can do tree-banding to suppress spongy moths. That involves tying burlap around the middle of your trees, about chest height. This year, the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources will spray insecticide across more than 227,000 acres of forest, including parts of Union, Lycoming, and Clinton Counties.