Risk of grass pollen allergy ‘high’ in half of France

If sunny weather and warm temperatures allow us to return to seasonal norms, they are also synonymous with the return of grass pollen, which many allergy sufferers fear. Allergy risk levels have increased, according to the National Aerobiological Surveillance Network (RNSA). “at a high level in many departments” from May 7. Thus, all departments in the southwest and southeast are affected. The rest of the country is also at medium risk, although all these departments will “quickly (readjusting) to a high level in the coming days”.

The reason for this phenomenon may be precipitation in early May. They “brought a little respite to allergy sufferers, and also promoted the growth and development of herbs,” confirms RNSA. The heat of the last few days has increased the risk of allergies.

A small third of the 20 million people with allergies – mild or more severe – suffer from pollen, according to Frédéric de Blay, president of the French Federation of Allergists.

The World Health Organization (WHO) predicts that by 2050, half the world’s population will suffer from allergies, due in part to global warming and pollution.