The caterpillars are present in Maine from April to mid-June. Be on the lookout for brown caterpillars with white and signature orange spots. The tiny hairs on the caterpillar become airborne, most often causing a localized itchy skin rash. The rash can last between a few days to a few weeks and varies in severity. Should you or someone you know develop a rash from the browntail moth caterpillar, topical cream is most commonly used to treat it.

The team at Savage’s Drug in Oakland has put together a topical remedy in the form of a grab-and-go kit—convenient and effective. They also created a stronger remedy available by prescription only.