Overview
- Germany’s weather service forecasts mild, dry conditions with temperatures near 18°C on Tuesday and Wednesday, driving a sharp rise in hazel and alder pollen levels.
- Pollen services report pronounced regional splits, with southwest Hesse already affected while North Hesse only now sees a pickup in concentrations, an unusual long-lasting “border situation.”
- After the early-tree phase, ash and birch are expected next, with grasses likely from mid to late April according to current guidance.
- Roughly 14% of the population has hay fever, and studies cited by Charité’s Karl-Christian Bergmann show no measurable rise in overall prevalence over the past two decades.
- Health authorities advise preparing now by checking medications and using forecasts or apps, starting antihistamines or nasal sprays early and regularly, and reducing indoor exposure through targeted cleaning, clothing and hair routines, and window filters to avoid progression to asthma.