A plant-removing company has issued an alert this weekend, following the discovery of an ‘infestation’ of the toxic plant giant hogweed, which has been known to leave children permanently scarred.
Japanese Knotweed Plus Ltd. took to Facebook to share the discovery of the infestation near Close Park in Radcliffe, Greater Manchester.
As many of you will know from previous reports, giant hogweed is highly toxic and extremely harmful if it touches or brushes against the skin.
Containing phototoxic sap that prevents the body from protecting itself against harmful UV light, giant hogweed can cause severe blistering and burning of the skin. Indeed, just last summer, a number of children in the UK were left with permanent scarring after coming into contact with the plant.
With some calling for access to the path in question to be restricted, the local council has confirmed that it will be dealing with the infestation.
For those of you concerned, giant hogweed is recognisable by its large white flowers as well as the purple spots and thin white hairs along the stem.
If your child has come into contact with giant hogweed, cover the area from the sunlight immediately and bring them inside the house. Wash the area of skin with cold, clean water and soap (using gloves on your own hands), and bring them to your GP as soon as possible.
For more information on giant hogweed, warning signs and symptoms, check out this link.
