Social media has made it easier than ever to share important safety information. Warnings that once might have stayed local can now spread across the globe in minutes—sometimes preventing serious harm.
One such warning comes from a mother whose quick thinking may have saved her son’s life.
A Pain That Escalated Quickly
A few years ago, Andrea Pergola’s 15-year-old son, Logan, was volunteering and gathering tree branches when he suddenly felt a sharp sting on his arm.
At first, it seemed minor—just a quick, stinging pain. But within minutes, a strange red, grid-like mark appeared on his skin. The mark rapidly spread into a painful rash that climbed up his arm toward his chest.
Logan began to feel lightheaded, his skin turned pale, and the pain intensified to a burning, searing sensation.
Desperate Attempts to Help
Andrea tried cleaning the sting and even applied garlic—a traditional home remedy for insect bites—in hopes of neutralizing the venom. But nothing worked. The pain only worsened.
That’s when Logan’s grandfather spotted the culprit nearby. Wearing heavy gloves, he captured it in a bag for a closer look.
The “Cute” Culprit with a Dangerous Secret
To their surprise, it was a small, fluffy caterpillar—soft and almost “adorable” in appearance. But looks were deceiving.
Andrea’s online search revealed the truth: Logan had been stung by one of North America’s most toxic caterpillars—the Southern Flannel Moth caterpillar, also known as the asp caterpillar (Megalopyge opercularis).
Though native to Texas, these venomous caterpillars have been increasingly spotted in other states, including Florida. Their venomous spines can deliver an intensely painful sting, sometimes causing severe reactions that require medical treatment.
Straight to the ER
Realizing the danger, Andrea rushed Logan to the emergency room. Doctors confirmed that this was not something over-the-counter medication could treat.
She later posted a warning on Facebook:
“Research this caterpillar, be aware of it, and make your kids aware of it. If you are stung, get to the ER and let them treat you. We didn’t realize he had been stung so many times—Benadryl wouldn’t have helped at home.”
What You Need to Know
- The asp caterpillar may look harmless but is one of the most venomous in North America.
- Symptoms can include severe burning pain, rash, swelling, nausea, and lightheadedness.
- If stung, seek immediate medical attention.
- Wear gloves when handling leaves, branches, or firewood where caterpillars may hide.
This story is a reminder: sometimes the smallest, cutest creatures can be the most dangerous. Awareness can make all the difference.
