DNC learners react badly to caterpillar hair allergy
In a statement the school said it had sent several learners home.
A LOCAL school said they acted quickly after they discovered that a long-haired caterpillar on the school’s premises was causing skin irritation to its learners. Durban North College’s Natasja Pretorius said they first noticed that learners were complaining about itchy skin last week, soon after the start of the new year.
“We called in a pest control company last week and again this week. It seems to be affecting only a few of the kids and the minute they complain we send them home. It’s all under control.”
The father of one of the learners who did not want to be named said his son had broken out in a severe rash.
Read also – VIDEO-Glenhills man bitten by dangerous stiletto snake
While the rash was not painful, it was ‘itchy’ he said. “I was called to pick my son up again today (Monday). Once he is at home, by the morning his skin clears up. Once he goes back to school, it flares up again.”
Pretorius said they found that it was the hair of the caterpillars that were the culprits causing the itchiness.
Read also – Rasta champions the environment
“The caterpillars apparently shed hair and with the wind blowing it picks up the hair and this is how it is being spread. Unfortunately some of the learners have had an allergic reaction to this. The fumigators are currently at school spraying the trees.”
She added that the school’s principal was in contact with the Department of Education who refused to close the school.
“Our learner’s well-being will always be our first priority,” said Pretorius.
Do you want to receive news alerts for the Durban North and uMhlanga via WhatsApp? Send us a WhatsApp message (not an sms) with your name and surname (only) to 060 532 5532.
For more news follow us on Facebook or Twitter. You can also follows us Instagram
