The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has warned that the hay fever season could start earlier than usual this year, with pollen and other allergens being released earlier and for longer periods thanks to a warming climate
To manage hay fever, keep windows and doors closed during high pollen counts(Image: Getty)
Households throughout the country are being advised to keep their windows and doors closed as much as possible now that meteorological spring has commenced, but especially during the hours of 10am and 3pm.
The arrival of spring marks the start of hay fever season, which usually begins in late March and continues until September.
However, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) cautioned this week that pollen and other allergens might be released sooner than normal and for extended periods due to a warming climate, meaning hay fever symptoms could emerge as early as January or February.
The pollen season in the UK is traditionally divided into three separate, yet overlapping, stages. The first operates from March to May with the discharge of tree pollen, the second involves the discharge of grass pollen from mid-May to July, and the third and final stage is the discharge of weed pollen from approximately July to September.
Keeping windows and doors closed during certain hours of the day can help reduce hay fever symptoms(Image: Getty)
However, pollen levels are heavily influenced by weather patterns, with higher temperatures resulting in greater pollen production, and with rising temperatures, research indicates oak and grass pollen seasons may commence even sooner.
The UKHSA stated: “Hay fever is already common during the spring and summer months, but our changing climate could see some symptoms starting earlier in the year for allergy sufferers across the UK.”
“Recent studies suggest that some types of pollen and other allergens could be released earlier in the year and for longer durations as temperatures rise. For some types of pollen, this may mean levels high enough to trigger hay fever as early in the year as January or February.”
Regrettably, hay fever has no cure, meaning it’s best controlled through preventative strategies, reports the Express.
One of the most effective ways to reduce symptoms is by keeping your windows and doors closed, as this stops pollen from drifting into your property and settling on your furniture, which can intensify symptoms indoors.
Whilst NHS guidance advises keeping windows and doors closed “as much as possible”, if you’re eager to allow some fresh air into your property during daylight hours, you should attempt to restrict this to specific times.
Hay fever sufferers have been urged to act (stock image)(Image: Elena Popova via Getty Images)
According to specialists, doors and windows ought to remain closed between 10am and 3pm – particularly on breezy days – as this is typically when pollen counts peak, meaning you’ll be increasing your exposure during these periods.
Glen Peskett, DIY expert at Saxton Blades, commented: “It’s important to get fresh air, and when the weather begins to improve, it’s even more tempting to open your home up to the warmer elements.
“However, during peak pollen times – usually between 10 am and 3 pm, and on windy days – it’s extremely beneficial to keep your windows and doors shut. This is especially important in bedrooms, where you want to breathe easy at night.”
Hay fever symptoms emerge when the pollen count (the number of pollen grains in one cubic metre of air) surpasses 50, and this typically worsens during early evening hours when the count reaches its peak. The pollen count is at its highest when the weather is warm, humid and windy.
Pollen is a fine powder that comes from plants. The most common sources of pollen are trees, grass and weeds.
The HSE has issued some of tips to help keep you or your child symptom free.
check the pollen forecast count daily at Met Éireannput Vaseline around your nostrils to trap pollenwear wraparound sunglasses to stop pollen from getting into your eyesshower and change your clothes after you’ve been outside to wash the pollen offstay indoors or plan indoor activities for children when the pollen count is highkeep windows and doors closed when the pollen count is highdust with a damp clothvacuum oftenbe aware that pets can carry pollen into your house
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