Urgent warning to dog walkers as toxic 20-foot hogweed that can cause BLINDNESS and blisters invades footpaths

DOG walkers have been issued an urgent warning after a toxic plant was spotted invading footpaths.

Giant hogweed, which can grow up to 20-feet high, can cause severe blisters or even BLINDNESS if touched by walkers or by dogs.

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The dangerous plant often grows along hedgerows and looks like cow-parsley, making it even more dangerous to unsuspecting walkers.

Dog walkers have also been warned that giant hogweed's dangerous sap can cause equally severe injuries to man's best friend, or even kill them.

Canine companions could be blinded if their faces brush the weed while exploring fields or hedgerows.

The irritant sap can also cause sunlight sensitivity in the short and long term.

This comes as a four-year-old in Greater Manchester suffered horrible injuries after coming into contact with the plant's toxic sap.

The boy's school has since issued a warning to all parents and pupils.

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However, this was too late for the injured schoolboy who sustained severe burns to his hands after touching the plant while playing in the local park.

The Sun previously reported on two other children who suffered giant hogweed injuries, 10 year-old Lauren and 22 month-old Ella.

According to the Woodland Trust, blistering caused by giant hogweed burns can last for several years.

If you suspect that you have come into contact with giant hogweed, Healthline's advice is to wash the affected area with mild soap under cool water and keep it out of direct sunlight.

Avoid contact with your eyes as the burning sap can cause blindness.

If burns or blisters form, you should seek medical attention immediately as they can be treated with anti-inflammatory creams.

A full guide to giant hogweed, including how it looks and how to get rid of it, can be found here.

Whatshed has also released an that can be used to see if there is giant hogweed near you, complete with a reporting tool for anyone who sees the dangerous plant in their area.

Giant Hogweed

The photo shows giant hogweed, the 'most dangerous plant in Britain.'

Common symptoms of giant hogweed poisoning:

• Painful blisters that form within 48 hours
• Blisters become dark and pigmented
• Scars that last up to six years, though typically only last a few months
• Long-term sensitivity to sunlight is common

If you come into contact with giant hogweed:

• Wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and COLD water as soon as possible
• Keep exposed area away from sunlight for 48 hours
• If a reaction occurs, topical steroids applied early can reduce the severity of the reaction and ease discomfort
• If sap goes in eyes, rinse them with water and wear sunglasses
• If a reaction has occurred, the area of skin may be sensitive to sunlight for a few years and you may want to apply sun cream or keep the affected area covered from the sun when possible
• See a physician if you have a reaction or any questions.