Overview
- The Met Office launched its five-day pollen forecast with ‘very high’ alder levels in Dumfries, Galloway, Lothian and Borders, and ‘high’ levels across parts of Scotland and northern England, with counts forecast to ease over the weekend.
- USA Today reports tree, grass and weed pollen counts already climbing in the West and South, with AccuWeather projecting an early, strong tree pollen push moving north from the South and Ohio Valley and high levels in more than 29 states.
- Allergists say the U.S. season is starting earlier and running longer, with symptoms already reported in the Southeast and Southwest and New York specialists warning Long Island could see an intense tree pollen season after a wet winter.
- Doctors advise beginning intranasal corticosteroids and second-generation antihistamines one to two weeks before peak exposure, keeping windows closed, using HEPA filtration, and showering and changing clothes after time outdoors.
- Clinicians warn seasonal pollen can trigger asthma exacerbations and recommend preemptive maintenance inhalers to reduce the risk of severe flares and hospitalizations.