According to the latest pollen monitoring forecast, concentrations of the main autumn allergy-causing pollens are all on the rise. The main sources of pollen in autumn include plants of the genus Artemisia (such as mugwort), plants of the family Amaranthaceae (such as Chenopodium album), and plants of the genus Ambrosia, among which the pollen of Artemisia is particularly active in autumn. Beijing is expected to enter a new peak period for pollen allergies from about now to late September. Some hay fever sufferers have already begun experiencing noticeable symptoms.
It is recommended that people with pollen allergies take all the following prevention and control measures to mitigate symptoms during this period.
Avoidance: Stay Clear of Allergens
Sunny and windy weather conditions are ideal for pollen dispersal. In addition to tracking real-time pollen concentrations, keep an eye on changes in wind, humidity, and rainfall. Minimize outdoor activities on sunny, dry days with light winds. Most importantly, if you suffer from hay fever, try to avoid going out during the peak pollen concentration hours (10:00 to 17:00).
Protection: Strengthen Personal Protection
When going outdoors, wear well-fitted nasal filters, goggles, or other protective gear to reduce exposure to pollen. Keep emergency medication on hand if necessary. Once home, change your clothes promptly, wash your face, and rinse your nasal passages with saline solution to reduce the allergens remaining inside your nose.
Treatment: Take Medicine Regularly as Prescribed
It is crucial to take medicine in a regular, scientific, and standardized manner. Choose licensed hospitals and pharmacies, and take medicine under the guidance of professional physicians and pharmacists.
This year's autumn pollen season has arrived earlier than usual, likely due to the higher temperatures and abundant rainfall in recent months, which have encouraged the growth of herbaceous plants.
Reminder: Do not mistake allergy symptoms for a common cold. If relevant symptoms appear, seek prompt medical attention at a hospital. After a thorough examination and diagnosis, follow standardized treatment to avoid delaying recovery due to any misdiagnosis.
(Source: Beijing Meteorological Service)
