These dots are one behind the other. The hairs on the caterpillars can float through the air on windy days. They can land on humans or things that humans later touch and cause a rash. Some people have severe allergic reactions to the caterpillar hairs. The rash often appears on skin inside the elbow, around the waist or on the neck.
Some people also have breathing problems from inhaling the hairs.
Prevention Tips 1. Don't hang any laundry outside on the clothesline during May, June and July. Use your dryer or hang up clothes in your house. Avoid places where trees or shrubs are lacking leaves. If you have been in contact with browntail moths, take a cool shower and change clothes.