Forecast

Exposure to birch pollen peaks at Easter!

Holy Week started off rainy and cool, but according to the weather forecast, the Easter weekend should bring rising temperatures and plenty of sunshine. These are ideal conditions for finding Easter eggs, but an additional challenge for pollen allergy sufferers.

Because over Easter, with the peak of the birch pollen season can be expected. This year, many birch trees are ready to flower almost simultaneously, which can lead to a drastic increase in pollen concentrations within a very short space of time.

In addition, the hornbeam which belongs to the same plant family as the birch. It can further increase the already high levels of pollution through cross-reactions.

Also ash pollen is still present in the ambient air. Although the flowering period of this olive tree plant is already well advanced, low to moderate levels are still to be expected at the weekend.

Anyone who is sensitised to olive tree pollen should also avoid using flowering forsythia branches as room decorations. The same applies to palm catkinswhich are currently to be seen in many places. Although their pollen is only classed as moderately allergenic, it can significantly increase indoor exposure. These branches should therefore also be avoided in living areas.

In addition to the pollen types mentioned above maple, yew, poplar, sour grasses and cypress plants are represented in the pollen spectrum. However, they only have a very low potential to cause allergic reactions.

Despite the expected exposure, the Austrian Pollen Information team wishes you a happy Easter and relaxing holidays!