Outbreak of itching in Recife was caused by moths

The outbreak of lesions that cause itching registered in municipalities in the metropolitan region of Recife was caused by moths, according to a technical note from the Brazilian Society of Dermatology released on Wednesday (8).

More than 200 cases were identified in two communities in an Atlantic Forest reserve area of Dois Irmãos State Park. Several hypotheses have been raised, including ivermectin poisoning, scabies and insect bites.

“The key to the problem lies in the wings of moths of the genus Hylesia, which reproduce at this time of year”, informed the organization.

The insects, according to the document, "enter domestic environments and, when struggling against light sources, release tiny bodily bristles that penetrate deeply into the skin and cause intense dermatitis."

Text translated using artificial intelligence.