People across the UK are being urged to take certain steps this week as the NHS shares key advice following the latest Met Office forecast. The health service has recommended keeping windows and doors closed until Friday, June 19, to help hay fever sufferers cope with high pollen levels.
Pollen Forecast
According to the Met Office, pollen levels will range from 'Medium' to 'Very High' across most of England from Monday, June 15, to Friday, June 19. Parts of Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Wales will also experience elevated pollen counts, increasing the risk of hay fever symptoms.
NHS Advice
In an alert on Instagram, the NHS stated: "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 recommends the following dos:
- Keep windows and doors shut as much as possible
- Put petroleum jelly around your nostrils to trap pollen
- Wear wraparound sunglasses, a mask, or a wide-brimmed hat
- Shower and change clothes after being outside
- Vacuum regularly and dust with a damp cloth
- Use a pollen filter in car air vents and a HEPA filter in your vacuum cleaner
And these don'ts:
- Do not cut grass or walk on grass
- Do not spend too much time outside
- Do not keep fresh flowers in the house
- Do not smoke or be around smoke
- Do not dry clothes outside
- Do not let pets into the house if possible
Symptoms of Hay Fever
Common symptoms include sneezing, coughing, a runny or blocked nose, itchy eyes, itchy throat, loss of smell, headaches, and fatigue. The NHS notes that symptoms are usually worse between late March and September, especially in warm, humid, and windy conditions.
While there is no cure for hay fever, following these steps can help ease symptoms during high pollen periods.
