The Met Office issued a red alert for hay fever, forecasting very high levels of pollen in the air. High and very high pollen alerts are in place across England through to Sunday. Much of Scotland and Northern Ireland are also under a pollen alert, with levels due to decrease later in the week.
Warmer winter temperatures are expected, reaching highs of 17°C, likely causing earlier and more intense pollination. The high pollen count is likely driven by tree pollen, which usually peaks in early spring. An estimated 13 million people in the UK suffer from hay fever.
8 million people. Dog owners should watch for six key symptoms of hay fever in dogs: licking or biting paws, excessive scratching, redness of skin, shaking head, rubbing ears or muzzle, and tiredness. Hay fever symptoms in dogs are much rarer to exhibit than in humans, even if they are suffering.
The red alert indicates a significant health risk for hay fever sufferers, requiring precautions such as staying indoors during peak pollen times. The combination of tree pollen and warmer temperatures exacerbates symptoms for those affected. In Scotland and Northern Ireland, the pollen alert is expected to persist before easing, offering some relief later in the week.
The widespread nature of the alert underscores the extensive impact of this pollen surge across the UK.