With the sun now setting no earlier than 7pm and the temperatures getting warmer, we’re feeling pretty giddy for springtime in NYC…that is besides those who deal with seasonal allergies. But alas, allergy season is heading to NYC whether we like it or not–and earlier than normal this year, too.
Allergist Dr. Marie Cavuoto Petrizzo reportedly told Fox 5 NY that “historically, allergy season starts [the] end of March and early April, and it continues until about June” but because we had above-average temperatures this winter–making it the warmest one since 1893–that unfortunately means pollen is heading to NYC earlier than normal this year.
Well, actually, that means NYC allergy season has (unfortunately) already arrived–and those of us who have been sneezing up a storm these past few days can attest to that.
Trees pollinate when temperatures stay above 50ºF for a few days, and considering we’ve already been hovering above that and the lowest high temperature between today, March 14th, and Sunday, March 17th, is supposed to be 58ºF, it’s safe to say the pollen count in NYC is most certainly climbing.
According to Staten Island Advance, Dr. Christopher V. Lisi, an ENT, says the biggest allergy triggers in NYC during the springtime are trees, especially oak, maple, and cherry blossom trees.
Come summer, grasses trigger the most reaction.
Petrizzo notes that people should try their best to “stay indoors on high pollen days,” or to, at the very least, limit your time outside. It’s also recommended to shower and wash your hair when returning indoors to rid yourself of pollen.
Those with allergies should also keep their windows closed and run an air conditioner on high pollen days, which acts as an air filter.
If you’re affected by allergies, or simply just curious, you can check the pollen count in NYC online here.