Giant hogweed victim calls for more protection against ‘dangerous’ plant

A Co Tyrone woman left with severe burns after falling into Giant Hogweed six years ago says more needs to be done to protect people.

Jenny O'Reilly's arm has never been the same after she fell into Giant Hogweed six years ago. It flares up every year and she is left in pain.

“It starts off like a mild sunburn, and then gets worse and really hot and really painful,” she explained.

“Then it blisters and then it turns into like a crawling sensation, of like getting spiders crawling on your skin. It actually feels like getting a tattoo done.”

The condition is painful and doctors have told Jenny there's nothing they can do.

“It’s awful, you can’t go outside unless your bandaged,” she said.

“I usually put sun cream on, and then bandage it and then a long-sleeved top.

Giant hogweed is mainly found near river banks and can grow up to five metres tall, quickly taking over an area as it produces thousands of seeds.

The plant is classified as an invasive species. Its sap irritates the skin and cause photo-sensitivity.

Jenny was out walking when the accident happened. She doesn't believe enough is being done to protect people.

“A lot of people think that it’s cow parsley, but it’s far bigger, anywhere it is there needs to be signs up and it a plan needs put in place to eradicate it once and for all. It’s so, so dangerous. I’m terrified it will never go away.”

In a statement the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs says when funds such as the environment fund are available they support the agencies to eradicate alien invasive species such as Giant hogweed.

The Department also says they work closely with local council officers where there is health and safety issue in a public area and provides warning signage for landowners too.

If you do find you have come into contact with Giant hogweed the advice is avoid sunlight. Wash it off immediately with cold water and seek medical help.