Extended Hay Fever Season Linked to Climate Change in Europe
• A new study shows climate change is lengthening the hay fever season in Europe by causing trees like birch to flower earlier.
• Warmer weather, especially during warm and dry days, leads to increased pollen dispersal, worsening allergy symptoms.
• Urban air pollution can intensify hay fever symptoms, even in areas with lower pollen counts.
Climate change prolongs hay fever season in Europe
A recent study in *The Lancet Public Health* reveals that climate change is prolonging the hay fever season in Europe. The research compares data from 2015-2024 with that from 1991-2000, showing that trees like birch, alder, and olive are flowering one to two weeks earlier. This shift is due to warmer weather, which favors birch pollen production and dispersal, creating 'pollen bombs' on warm, dry days.
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