Seasonal allergy sufferers across Toronto and much of southern Ontario are facing what experts describe as an unusually intense spring allergy season, driven by a massive surge of airborne pollen.
According to Aerobiology Research Laboratories, pollen levels across the Greater Toronto Area have spiked dramatically this spring due to several tree species releasing pollen simultaneously.
Daniel Coates explained that trees such as cedar and maple — which normally release pollen earlier in the season — were delayed this year, causing their pollen to overlap with birch, oak, willow and poplar trees.
“We’re seeing a huge influx of pollen right now in the air that we wouldn’t necessarily traditionally see,” Coates said, describing the current situation as an “explosion of pollen.”
Experts warn the heightened pollen levels are expected to continue for another four to five weeks, eventually overlapping with grass allergy season in mid-June and later with ragweed season, which is considered one of the most allergenic pollens in Canada.
Samira Jeimy, an associate professor in clinical immunology and allergy at Western University, said some pollen activity actually began unusually early this year.
She noted that windborne pollen from the southern United States can travel long distances into Ontario.
“The pollen gets picked up from southwest U.S. and southeast U.S. and gets pulled all the way up to Ontario and impacts us,” Jeimy explained.
Southern Ontario Dominates Canada’s Allergy Rankings
A recent report from Aerobiology Research Laboratories identified several southern Ontario cities among Canada’s worst allergy hotspots, including:
- Windsor
- Hamilton
- Barrie
- Kingston
Toronto also ranked among the country’s top 10 allergy capitals.
Experts say pollution in urban areas can worsen allergy symptoms by making pollen particles more inflammatory and irritating to the immune system.
Jeimy explained that diesel particles and pollution can attach themselves to pollen and intensify allergic reactions.
“The immune system gets more easily activated,” she said.
Climate Change Fueling Longer Allergy Seasons
Researchers say pollen levels in Canada have doubled over the past 35 years.
Coates warned that climate change and warmer weather are lengthening pollen seasons and increasing airborne allergen levels across the country.
“The bad news is, it’s only getting worse,” he said.
How Allergy Sufferers Can Reduce Symptoms
Health experts recommend that people first determine exactly what they are allergic to through medical testing or allergy specialists.
Some of the key recommendations include:
- Keeping windows closed overnight and early mornings
- Showering after spending time outdoors
- Frequently washing bedding
- Using HEPA air filters indoors
- Avoiding outdoor exercise during peak pollen periods
- Keeping pets off beds since they can carry pollen indoors
Experts also note that pollen levels are often lower immediately after rainfall, making that a better time for outdoor activities for pollen allergy sufferers.
Doctors say early symptom management using antihistamines or nasal corticosteroids before peak allergy season can also help reduce inflammation and lessen severe reactions.
With tree pollen season now colliding with upcoming grass and ragweed seasons, allergy specialists warn many Ontarians could experience one of the toughest allergy periods in years.