The Changing Patterns of Pollen and Allergies

Pollen from flowering plants can travel vast distances, often carried by wind for hundreds of kilometers. The climate crisis has accelerated this process, leading to earlier, longer, and more intense allergy seasons in many parts of the world. Over the past 30 years, rising temperatures in North America have extended the pollen season by an average of 20 days annually, while increased CO2 levels have resulted in higher pollen production. Similar trends are observed across Europe.

For individuals with allergies, this surge in pollen exacerbates respiratory issues, but there’s another critical factor to consider. Research from southeastern Germany reveals that changes in weather patterns and atmospheric circulation alter how pollen moves. Dust and pollen can now reach areas previously unaffected, exposing populations to allergens their immune systems are unprepared to handle.

This shift means local allergy seasons are becoming longer and more unpredictable, especially toward late spring. With pollen allergies already affecting 40% of the population in northern Europe, these changes pose significant health challenges, highlighting the urgent need for awareness and adaptive measures to mitigate their impact.