You can get a caterpillar rash just by touching the insect. The hair of the insect can pierce the skin and release irritants, toxins, or allergens that trigger a reaction. The rash may last for a ...

Each caterpillar has 700,000 toxic bristles which can be carried by the wind. Each tiny hair has a hook that can stick into skin and can cause painful rashes, coughing and allergic reactions.