half of France placed on red alert

Philippe and Nathalie are used to traveling 8 km every morning, under the birches and ash trees of the Parc de la Citadelle, in Lille (Nord). But for the past few days, pollen has complicated the ride. “It’s especially the throat”, specifies the Lille. Pollen allergy, a seasonal ailment that does not spare animals, such as shiba. “The dog has red eyes, he is scratching his muzzle. He has been allergic to pollen for a few months”describes its owner.

Outdoor activities at the end of the day

The Nord and Pas-de-Calais have been on red alert since this weekend, for a high risk of allergy to pollen, especially birch and hornbeam, according to the National Aerobiological Monitoring Network. The arrival of spring, good weather, are two factors that favor the dispersion of pollen in the air. Some pharmacies have replenished their stocks of antihistamine drugs, to cope with the number of customers suffering from allergies. To best experience these allergy peaks, it is best to ventilate your home in the morning, protect your eyes, and favor outdoor activities at the end of the day.