A massive infestation of poisonous oak processionary moth caterpillars has taken hold in Berlin's Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf district, forcing the closure of sports facilities and green spaces.
Residents in the Jungfernheide area are hit hardest. Door frames, cars, and façades are covered. District councillor Nico Kaufmann says older residents now fear leaving their homes. Children are covered in blisters, and some residents rely on cortisone tablets to cope.
The danger comes from fine stinging hairs that contain the protein thaumetopoein. These hairs can become airborne, penetrating skin, eyes, or respiratory tract, causing severe itching, rashes, conjunctivitis, and breathing difficulties. The hairs remain active even in old nests.
Health authorities have not intervened because the caterpillars are not classified as classic pests. The plant protection office also prohibits biocides. Residents have launched a petition demanding a binding protection plan for Jungfernheide and all of Berlin.