Hay fever sufferers in Manchester have been warned to expect high pollen levels over the upcoming Early May bank holiday, with Mancunians set to make the most of the long weekend in pub gardens, locals parks and other outdoor spaces.
Data from the Kleenex Pollen Forecast shows that pollen levels in Manchester are continuing to rise as we move closer to peak pollen season. Tree pollen readings are forecasted to be particularly high, potentially leading to a wave of runny noses, sore eyes and sneezing fits across the city.
The severity of pollen levels is measured by Pollen Grains Per Cubic Metre (PPM). A reading of 200-703 for tree pollen is considered high, and anything above 704 very high. Manchester is set to reach an eye-watering 392 PPM tomorrow and 394 PPM on Sunday.
Readings are correct as of 30th April. Data is updated in real time, so hay fever sufferers are encouraged to check the Kleenex Pollen Forecast for the latest pollen levels.
The Kleenex Pollen Forecast* is one of the most regionally accurate pollen tracking tools available. It provides a detailed pollen count for all 1.7 million postcodes across the UK three days in advance, enabling those with hay fever to plan days out using pollen data specific to their local town or city, rather than a broad national forecast.
Its data is sourced from Ambee, which collates information from pollen traps across the country, about local weather on the day and on different types of trees, weeds and grass in a specific area.
For Mancunians still planning on heading outside this weekend, Amena Warner, Head of Clinical Services, Allergy UK, has shared advice for hay fever sufferers on how they can manage symptoms when meeting friends and family in pubs, restaurants and gardens:
Consider your wardrobe choices
Accessories like hats and wraparound sunglasses can stop pollen from reaching face, hair and importantly, eyes
Try using an allergen barrier balm
Some allergy sufferers find that applying an allergen barrier balm around the base of the nostrils and around sunglasses creates a barrier to airborne allergens
Schedule your daily outings carefully
Always check the Kleenex™ Pollen Forecast before leaving the house. Monitoring pollen levels daily can help you plan ahead to manage your symptoms
Shower when you return home
Pollen can stay on your skin and hair after you’ve been outside, so take a shower as soon as possible when you return home
Always carry a pack of tissues with you
Kleenex Allergy Comfort tissues hold the Allergy UK Seal of Approval and are designed to be gentle and ultra-absorbent for use around watery eyes and runny noses. They are available in convenient on-the-go soft packs, perfectly sized for any bag.
Ori Ben Shai, Vice President and Managing Director, Kimberly-Clark UK, said: “We know how unpleasant hay fever can be and are delighted to continue our partnership with Allergy UK to help the UK’s 13 million hay fever sufferers this summer. The Kleenex Pollen Forecast offers unrivalled insight into local pollen levels and should be a big help for anyone struggling with allergies. We recommend that anyone with hay fever symptoms check pollen levels in their postcode daily to ensure they can prepare appropriately and need not hide inside while the sun is shining”.
The launch of the Pollen Forecast comes as Kleenex renews its partnership with Allergy UK to help support the UK’s hay fever sufferers through peak allergy season and Live Allergy Comfortable. The partnership funding will allow Allergy UK to divert extra resource towards its helpline to ensure those really struggling with their symptoms are able to access expert support and guidance.
