Often referred to as the "hayfever capital of Australia," Canberra is not for the faint-hearted during pollen season. The ACT has the highest rate of hay fever sufferers in the country, with one-in-three people likely to be affected, compared to one-in-five nationally. Consequently, if you're prone to pollen allergies and planning a visit to Canberra to see Floriade, make sure you’re prepared with preventative treatments. The grass pollen season has arrived earlier than usual, and local experts from the Canberra Pollen Monitoring Centre at the Australian National University (ANU) warn that this year could be particularly severe due to increased grassland growth and upcoming weather patterns. Tree pollen is already causing discomfort, and the forecasted La Nina may further extend and worsen the season. Pollen consists of fine grains released by grasses, weeds, and trees, which can be carried over long distances by the wind, insects, or birds. For those with allergies, exposure can lead to hay fever symptoms such as itchy, inflamed eyes and nasal passages, and in more severe cases, asthma. To stay ahead of symptoms, it's crucial to begin preventive treatments like sprays and inhalers early. During your visit, you can keep track of pollen levels by using the Canberra Pollen app to manage your health effectively. This app provides a daily pollen count and forecast of grass pollen levels in the air around Canberra.

Helpful Resources for Hayfever Sufferers: 

• Health Direct – Pollen Allergy 
• National Allergy Council
• Canberra Pollen Monitoring
• ASCIA Pollen Calendar – A guide to seasonal pollen across Australia.

Reference: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-08-24/hayfever-sufferers-warned-of-above-average-grass-pollen-season/104250028