Firefighters were dispatched to the sports hall in Hosingen at around 6pm following reports of individuals developing a rash and experiencing itching after coming into contact with an unknown substance. The Mayor of the Parc Hosingen municipality, Romain Wester, confirmed that a significant operation was underway but did not provide further details at the time.
Paul Wilwert from the Grand Ducal Fire and Rescue Corps (CGDIS), who led the operation, confirmed to RTL in an on-site interview that, shortly after 6pm, an ambulance was called as several children presented with skin rashes. Within a short time, ambulance personnel also began to exhibit the same symptoms, prompting the NRBC – a specialist CGDIS unit that responds to nuclear, radiological, biological, and chemical hazards – to attend the scene to better assess the situation.
Those who developed rashes were instructed to shower and were provided with replacement clothing before being taken to the hospital. The affected individuals included five children and four educators, while 13 other children present in the building showed no symptoms. Approximately 30 personnel from various CGDIS units were involved in the operation. Teams in specialised protective gear were scheduled to investigate further on Thursday evening before concluding the operation.
On Friday morning, mayor Romain Wester told RTL the rashes had been attributed to oak processionary caterpillars. Nests had been located in the playground next to the sports hall. The area has been completely cordoned off and the nests are to be removed by experts on Friday afternoon. The health department will also inspect the situation on site.
Wester added that the children and adults affected were doing well and expected to return to the holiday camp on Friday. 20 children aged between 4 and 7 are attending the camp, which is due to conclude on Tuesday.
