Residents of the capital city Islamabad have started voicing worries regarding the start of pollen season and the allergic reactions it can cause. According to the Meteorological Department, pollen counts have already begun rising to significant levels.
In its recent daily monitoring report, the met office identified paper mulberry trees as a major source of pollen currently. Pollen counts from paper mulberry trees reached 560 particles per cubic meter of air. Pine trees and grasses were also contributing, with counts of 139 and 63 particles per cubic meter respectively.
The overall pollen count across all species in Islamabad on Sunday, the first day of the season, was recorded at an elevated level of 845 particles per cubic meter. If conditions remain dry and windy, expert Dr. M. Afzaal from the Meteorological Department warned pollen counts could spread substantially.
Pollen counts have been known to peak as high as 45,000 particles per cubic meter between March and April in the past. The sectors seeing highest counts so far are Zero Point, H-8, H-9 and areas along the Srinagar Highway, where paper mulberry trees are common.
Symptoms being reported include mild headaches, irritated throat, red and watery eyes, wheezing and breathing difficulties. Those with existing allergies are advised to take precautions like avoiding outdoors during morning hours when counts are highest, wearing protective masks and following medical advice.
While some sporadic relief is expected from upcoming March rains, wet weather can also cause pollen grains to swell in size. It remains important for those vulnerable to take necessary safety measures against pollen allergies during the season, which typically lasts through end of April after starting in mid-March.
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