The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention is warning Mainers to be on the lookout for browntail moth caterpillars, which will be active now through July.

The toxic hairs can cause a rash similar to poison ivy and can cause trouble breathing if inhaled. Infestations have been found in all Maine counties.

The Maine CDC offered these tips to help mitigate exposure: work outside on damp days or spray vegetation with a hose; wear a respirator and goggles; tightly secure clothing around the neck, wrists and ankles; take cool showers and change clothes after working in infested areas.

Also, dry laundry inside to keep hairs from embedding in clothing.