top cx logo
cx logo
Explorearrow down
search icon

Allergy-sufferers warned on pollen

Air pollution watchdog says end of March will be "terrible" for those who have not started taking medication

ALLERGY sufferers have been warned of "tough times ahead" as birch and other trees start to blossom between March 23 and 28 and have been told to start taking preventive anti-allergy medication.

Michel Thibaudon, director of the air pollution watchdog Réseau National de Surveillance Aérobiologique (RNSA) said "the trees are speeding up, the buds are opening and the catkins are getting longer" - all of which means streaming eyes, itchy noses and miserable conditions are not far away for those affected by allergies.

He said the risk was high across France but "the end of March will be terrible for allergy sufferers".

Around the Mediterranean coastline the main culprit was the cypress which is and will remain very high while elsewhere hazel and alder would "continue to tickle the nostrils".

Sufferers should organise to see their GPs to get preventive medicine such as Clarityne or the generic Loratidine as prescribed.

The RNSA has a guide, in French, to the main pollen-bearing trees and how to recognise them and also maps to find out the risks in your area.

Resident or second-home owner in France?
Benefit from our daily digest of headlines and how-to's to help you make the most of life in France
By joining the newsletter, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy
See more popular articles
The Connexion Help Guides
featured helpguide
Healthcare in France*
Featured Help Guide
- Understand the French healthcare system, how you access it and how you are reimbursed - Useful if you are new to the French healthcare system or want a more in-depth understanding - Reader question and answer section Aimed at non-French nationals living here, the guide gives an overview of what you are (and are not) covered for. There is also information for second-home owners and regular visitors.
Get news, views and information from France