Causes of epidemic dermatitis with urticaria and pruritus are few and can usually be traced to some natural source. In a similar way, an outbreak of dermatitis triggers a search for some contact exposure and is usually limited to one or only a few persons with a fairly obvious source to incriminate. Outbreaks of gastroenteritis trigger a search for enteric infections as outbreaks of respiratory symptoms trigger screening for infections such as influenza. Many illnesses can rapidly incapacitate a military unit but it is particularly disturbing when the agent is unknown or unsuspected. Key words: dermatitis, epidemic, processionary caterpillars Caterpillar dermatitis occurs commonly but only rarely does it present as a unit incapacitating epidemic of severe dermatitis with urticaria. At least 103 ADFA and RMC cadets were affected with large areas of dermatitis with an urticarial rash, about 30 seriously enough to require topical steroids. The risk of caterpillar dermatitis was unappreciated by those on a map exercise near Majura, despite seeing such insects in the field. We report an epidemic of processionary caterpillar dermatitis occurring in military officer cadets participating in a field exercise. Not all epidemics are due to infectious diseases. The company offers groundbreaking and custom-modified equipment, engines for land and marine applications, power generation for wide-ranging applications and lifecycle solutions.D Randell, M Fett, H Jenner, S Frances, D Shanks A Diverse Product LineĬaterpillar’s design, engineering and manufacturing capabilities produce a broad range of products for military forces and other government entities. Today, Caterpillar continues to support men and women in uniform and federal civilians with leading-edge solutions and global support. Air Force all have used Cat military construction equipment and power solutions for many decades. military engagement since World War I has relied, in some way, on Cat equipment. These reliable and technologically advanced products are used to provide security, generate energy and supply critical aid for millions of people around the globe. Caterpillar Defense is the world’s foremost supplier of earthmoving equipment, engines and power generators for government agencies and military forces.

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