Advertisement Tulane, Loyola faculty warn students, local residents of venomous caterpillars Caterpillar covered in thick hair that contains venom Share Shares Copy Link Copy

Administrators for Tulane and Loyola universities are advising students and neighbors be alert for stinging caterpillars frequently seen inching across areas of their campuses.Watch reportThe puss moth caterpillar is typically an inch in length and range in color from white to dark brown. Don't let their small stature fool you though, within the thick hair covering their bodies is venom that can potentially cause harm to unsuspecting students, children and adults."They will not attack," Loyola professor Robert Thomas wrote in a public service announcement to the campus. "But you must be careful where you sit and place your hands when they are present."Entomologists at the University of Florida describe the larva as "one of the most venomous" caterpillars in the U.S. That's because the hairs that cover their bodies can penetrate a person's skin causing a reaction that ranges from stinging pain to a trip to the emergency room.Check Out: America's Most Pest-Infested CitiesThe larva are the second stage in the life span of the southern flannel moth, also known as Megalopyge opercularis. They are commonly found from Florida to Texas.According to the warning sent out by Tulane University, the reaction to the venom can happen within five minutes of contact. Symptoms may include headaches, nausea, vomiting and intense abdominal distress.If you come into contact with the caterpillar and begin experiencing reactions to the venom, take oral antihistamines, apply an ice pack and seek medical attention immediately. Often times, physicians will administer injectable pain medicines for symptoms that may last up to five days.Faculty reported seeing the caterpillars most abundant on walls, benches and sidewalks. If you see one, just be sure to scoot the other way.