At least 17 hikers in the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia were injured after coming into contact with a poisonous plant. Five of them had to be treated in hospital. The plant, called giant hogweed, secretes a liquid that reacts with sunlight, according to the fire department.
For example, touching it can cause burns to the skin and burns to the arms or legs. “Other hikers have reported feeling sick,” the fire department said. Early Sunday afternoon, she was first informed of her discomfort and burns, and then the reports increased. Numerous ambulances were present.
The incident took place during the so-called mammoth march that started in the Grugapark in Essen. The park is also the destination of the 100 kilometer march, where the walkers were expected in the early morning hours on Sunday.
Hercules herb or bear weed
Giant hogweed is also called bear’s claw, hercules herb or hercules herb. The plant originates from the Caucasus and is now widespread in Central Europe and parts of North America. It can be found on forest edges, clearings, in riverbanks and mountainous regions.
For sensitive people, simple contact with the leaves is enough to cause redness, inflammation of the skin or irritation. Other effects can include weeping wounds that last for weeks, fever, sweating and circulatory shock. Anyone who has had contact with giant hogweed should avoid the sun and wash the affected areas of the skin with soap and water or rubbing alcohol.
Source: Krone
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