SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. – The Florida Department of Health issued an alert to be on the lookout for hairy caterpillars.
Health officials said the Orgyia leucostigma is also known as the white-marked tussock moth caterpillar. The caterpillar is common in Florida, according to DOH.
Seminole County Public Schools made a post on Twitter to make parents aware these caterpillars could leave behind a stinging rash.
Health officials said the bug’s hairs or cocoon can cause an allergic reaction that could lead to an itchy rash. The DOH said in the past, the rash outbreaks have happened in schools, daycare facilities and playgrounds.