A couple recounted a terrifying incident involving their six-year-old son, Yarren, who went into anaphylactic shock after encountering hairy caterpillars at a park in Noosa Heads, Queensland. While climbing trees, Yarren suddenly felt dizzy and exclaimed to his mother that he could “see rainbows on the inside” before collapsing. His father, Gregg, described the ordeal as Yarren began to have seizures, during which he bit his tongue, causing significant bleeding. His mother, Rachel, noticed a rash spreading from his stomach to his throat.
Yarren was urgently taken to Noosa Private Hospital and later airlifted for specialised care, leaving his parents fearful for his life as he lay in an induced coma, unaware of the cause of his condition. It wasn’t until two weeks later that they discovered the source of his allergic reaction. While returning to the park, they found a large number of hairy caterpillars beneath the trees.
Fortunately, Yarren made a full recovery but now carries an EpiPen, as severe allergic reactions to these caterpillars—though uncommon—can be life-threatening. This incident has highlighted the potential dangers associated with seemingly harmless creatures in natural settings.