Par
Mathieu Alfonsi
Published on
A season which begins earlier and earlier in the year thanks to very mild temperatures. Pollens have made their return to Francewith favorable weather conditions. This last week of February was marked by spring temperatures and dry weather which favored the dispersion of pollen. This Monday, March 2, 2026, almost all of France presents a “moderate” to “high” pollen indexaccording to Atmo France.
30% of adults concerned
In question? Cypresses and alders. The first is very present in the Mediterranean region, the second almost everywhere in France.
According to INRAE, “in Mediterranean cities, cypress pollen sometimes represents 50% of the total pollen emitted over a year, all species combined. Some years, this percentage even reaches 70% in Aix-en-Provence.”
Pollens are monitored in the ambient air because certain proteins of which they are made are allergens.
When they are emitted into the air and transported by the wind, they can come into contact with the respiratory and ocular mucous membranes and can cause allergies (or pollinosis). They can sometimes trigger an exacerbated reaction in our body, even though they should normally be tolerated (hypersensitivity reaction).
Pollen allergies, on the rise in industrialized countries, would concern 20% of children aged 9 and over and 30% of adults.
What to do?
To find out if you are prone to pollen allergies, here are the symptoms:
- itching;
- a stuffy or runny nose;
- sneezing;
- cough;
- wheezing;
- breathing difficulties;
- red, watery eyes;
To live as best as possible with these allergies, the Pasteur Institute of Lille advises avoiding allergens, by limiting outings during pollination peaks, especially in the morning. Windows should also be closed during pollen season to prevent pollen from entering.
It is also recommended to use air purifiers as they can help reduce indoor pollen. Washing your hands regularly, taking showers and changing your clothes after going out is also recommended. Finally, think about medications: use antihistamines, nasal sprays or eye drops prescribed by a doctor.
With Destination Health.
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