Florida authorities warn against the return of a poisonous caterpillar: a sting can "even hurt your bones"

If you live in the Sunshine State, beware: the pus caterpillar made its seasonal return to Florida. And while this blurry creature may seem friendly, experts advise people to stay out of the way.

Residents of the Florida Bay area reportedly spotted caterpillars, Fox reported.

A Spring Hill man claims to have recently been bitten by a caterpillar, while a couple from Riverview told the TV channel that he had spotted at least three of the insects behind their house.

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Although they look soft, the hair of this caterpillar actually has small, sharp spines that "stick to the skin," according to a 2014 National Geographic report, which are "the most venomous caterpillars" the United States".

"A puss caterpillar bite looks like a bee sting, but worse. The pain, immediately and quickly, worsens after the sting and can even hurt your bones, "said Don Hall, an entomologist at the University of Florida.

"It's definitely disabling," said Michael Dusk, a Spring Hill resident recently stung. "It's extremely painful."

A caterpillar bite does not necessarily require a visit to the emergency room, but the Florida Poison Information Center in Tampa warns those with a history of hay fever, diarrhea, or fever. asthma or allergy or develop an allergic reaction to the bite should. "

Floridian buffs can also call the Florida Poison Control Center, who "will tell you what to do to relieve the pain," said Alfred Aleguas, director of the Tampa Bay Center.

One way to reduce the pain is to remove the venom-filled quills from the caterpillar, which bitten people can do by covering the affected area with tape and then peeling it off.

"Apply ice packs to reduce the burning sensation, then apply a paste of baking soda and water," added the Florida Poison Information Center.

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Although there are two generations of caterpillars each year – one in the spring and another in the fall, according to the Poison Information Center – these creatures overwinter in cocoons, reported AgriLife Extension. from Texas A & M University.

If you notice a caterpillar of pus on oaks and lemon trees, keep your distance.

"Great to watch, [but] do not touch them, "added Aleguas.