Pollen peak on the way

HAY fever and asthma sufferers face a “particularly challenging” late spring and early summer, as data reveals the earliest start to the pollen season in 30 years.

Melbourne Pollen says an earlier-than-usual start to the grass-pollen season was influenced by the El Nino weather pattern and high temperatures in September.

A month ago, it predicted an average grass pollen season for Melbourne and much of the state, but data shows this season is outpacing both the average and the significant 2020 season.

Professor Ed Newbigin said it was shaping up to be a particularly challenging year.

“By this time in 2020, there had been five high grass-pollen days, whereas 2023 has already seen nine, marking the earliest start in the last 30 years,” he said.

High and extreme grass pollen days are of particular concern for people affected by hay fever and asthma.

Forecasts predict high-to-extreme grass pollen levels across northern Victoria this week.

These conditions are expected to persist through to at least Thursday.

Melbourne Pollen has advised all hay fever and asthma sufferers to stay indoors during the high and extreme-rated days, ensure homes were secure against pollen, update and follow asthma plans, consult a GP or pharmacist for tailored advice, have hay fever or asthma medication on hand and stay updated using its app for real-time forecasts.