Toxic Toupees. Flannel Moth. Furry Puss. This breed of hairy caterpillars has many names, but no matter what you call it.......it is considered to be the most poisonous in the United States! They have recently been spotted in Virginia.The state Department of Forestry is warning residents to be on the lookout for puss caterpillars, which look soft and furry — but have hidden sharp spines that can stick to human skin and they are venomous.
The Cousin Itt-like critters’ venomous spines can cause symptoms including intense pain, itchy rashes, nausea and vomiting when touched or brushed up against. A woman in Richmond went to emergency room after what she described as "a scorching-hot knife passing through the outside of my calf."
Even after she was treated with antihistamines and over-the-counter pain medication, Gaston said the stung spot “felt like a second- or third-degree burn, and I felt super-achy, like my bones hurt.”
Wow. I'll take your murder hornets and raise you a toxic toupee. Thanks, 2020.
Photo Cource: Getty Images
Full story from the NY Post.