Warning over rising pollen count

The Mediterranean areas are on high alert for pollens this week – though at present most of the country is not affected

Allergy sufferers are warned to watch out for high levels of cypress pollen in the south of France this week, while levels of alder, hazelnut and ash pollen are is also on the rise across the country.

Alert levels have been raised about a month earlier than usual, amid warnings that the situation is unlikely to improve soon, as conditions for the spread of pollen are highly favourable.

The rise in pollen levels coincides with pollution spikes in Paris, Lyon, Marseille and Strasbourg, leading to warnings that high pollution could exacerbate symptoms for those with allergies.

To protect themselves, allergy sufferers should consult the bulletins like this http://www.pollens.fr/en/bulletins/pollinic-bulletin.php issued daily on pollens.fr