Eichen processionary spinner: itching after the Pink Bowl in Aalen!

Eichen processionary spinner: itching after the Pink Bowl in Aalen!

Aalen, Deutschland - On June 14, 2025, the Centus Arena experienced a very special spectacle in Aalen: the first "Pink Bowl", a football event by the Schwäbisch Hall Unicorns against the Pforzheim Wilddogs, attracted over 4200 spectators. But the day that should draw attention to breast cancer screening took an unexpected turn for many. After the game, numerous visitors, helpers and players complained about unpleasant itching and rashes, which may be due to the oak processionary spinner, a type of caterpillar whose contact with the brain hair can cause serious allergic reactions.

The symptoms not only occurred among the spectators, but also among employees of the city of Aalen, who are also affected. According to the Schwäbisch Hall Unicorns - who showed sympathy with the patients and wanted them as quickly as possible - serious reactions such as shortness of breath have not yet been known. However, the nettle poison Thaumetopoein in the brain hair of the small animals is extremely dangerous and, as numerous reports, can lead to violent skin irritation.

The oak processionary spinner: an emerging problem

The spread of the oak processionary spinner, scientifically known as Thaumetopoea Processionea , is increasing in Europe. The reason for this is increasing temperatures and the absence of night frosts. This dangerous caterpillar is widespread in the northeast and southwest of Germany and parts of North Rhine-Westphalia. It should be emphasized that the fine burner hair, which are easily replaced and carried by the wind, can trigger heavy skin and respiratory reactions even without direct contact with the caterpillar. Affected people are not only visitors to outdoor events, but also walkers in forest areas, children and residents with trees that are affected by these animals.

The city administration of Aalen has already considered measures to clarify the situation and to check the any infestation of the adjacent forest. Initial considerations for the possible blocking of the affected forest area are made. Until then, those affected are advised to get advice in pharmacies or at doctors in order to take possible allergic reactions seriously and to control them accordingly.

Effects of the "Pink Bowl"

The "Pink Bowl" ended with an exciting but bitterly sophicilation for the Pforzheim Wilddogs, which won the day with 41:34. While the victory gave the fans joy, the health problems overshadowed the event. The suspicion of the oak processionary spinners throws a new light on the dangers of outdoor sporting events and indicates urgency to raise awareness of such allergens.

Support and information on the part of the organizers are now essential for those affected. In the show of this year's occurrence, the "Pink Bowl" could be another link in the chain of problems around the oak processionary spinner and the increasing allergies in our region. We hope that both those affected and organizers can learn from this situation to make future events safer.