The NHS has issued an urgent alert advising people across the UK to keep their windows and doors shut as pollen levels are set to soar this week. The health service's guidance follows the latest Met Office forecast, which predicts high to very high pollen counts for most of England from Monday, June 15, to Friday, June 19.
In the West Midlands, including Birmingham, the pollen count will be 'Very High' on Monday and will remain 'High' for the rest of the week. Parts of Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Wales will also experience elevated pollen levels.
NHS Advice on Hay Fever
The NHS shared an alert on Instagram, stating: 'There are high levels of pollen across some parts of the country over the coming days. Hay fever is a common allergy that causes sneezing, coughing and itchy eyes. You cannot cure it, but there are things you can do to help your symptoms.'
The health service emphasized keeping windows and doors shut as much as possible to prevent pollen from entering homes. Other recommended measures include:
- Applying petroleum jelly (such as Vaseline) around the nostrils to trap pollen
- Wearing wraparound sunglasses, a mask, or a wide-brimmed hat outdoors
- Showering and changing clothes after being outside
- Vacuuming regularly and dusting with a damp cloth
- Using a pollen filter in car air vents and a HEPA filter in vacuum cleaners
What to Avoid
The NHS also advises against certain activities when pollen counts are high:
- Cutting grass or walking on grass
- Spending too much time outdoors
- Keeping fresh flowers in the house
- Smoking or being around smoke
- Drying clothes outside
- Letting pets into the house if possible
Hay Fever Statistics and Symptoms
Hay fever affects around 10 to 18 million people in the UK, including about 25% of adults and nearly 15% of children. Symptoms include sneezing, coughing, a runny or blocked nose, itchy eyes, throat, mouth, nose, and ears, loss of smell, headaches, and fatigue. Symptoms are usually worse between late March and September, especially in warm, humid, and windy conditions when pollen counts are highest.
There is currently no cure for hay fever, but these measures can help manage symptoms during high pollen periods.
