ASSOCIATED PRESS • May 9, 2020
Maine officials are reminding the public to take precautions now that browntail moth caterpillars are emerging from their webs in trees. The caterpillars are covered with tiny hairs, which are shed and can become airborne, potentially causing a skin reaction like poison ivy. They can also cause breathing trouble if inhaled. The greatest risk for exposure to the toxic hairs is from now through July when the moths are active.