Three SA cities record high pollen and mould levels

People living with allergies may experience more symptoms in parts of South Africa, as grass pollen reaches moderate levels in several cities, while tree pollen remains high in Bloemfontein and Kimberley.

The latest pollen monitoring results show different allergy triggers across the country, with Durban recording high mould levels.

Which cities have the highest pollen levels?

Bloemfontein and Kimberley recorded moderate grass pollen levels and high tree pollen concentrations.

In Bloemfontein, olive trees were the dominant source of tree pollen.

Other types included acacia, birch, hackberry, bushwillow, gum, oak, pine and poplar.

Kimberley also recorded high tree pollen levels, with poplar as the dominant source.

Olive pollen was also present in high concentrations, alongside bushwillow, plane and elm.

Cape Town recorded moderate grass pollen levels, while tree pollen remained low.

Durban residents face high mould levels

Mould was the main allergy concern in Durban, where concentrations were high.

The monitoring report identified peaks of Cladosporium, an allergenic mould that can trigger symptoms in sensitive people.

Tree pollen levels remained low, with several types detected, including pine, mulberry, cypress, acacia, olive and karee.

What about Johannesburg and Pretoria?

Johannesburg recorded low concentrations of tree, grass and weed pollen. Mould levels were also low.

Pretoria’s report indicates that grass pollen levels are usually moderate to high at this time of the year.

Potential tree pollen sources include acacia, cedar, mulberry, gum, oak, birch and pine.

Weed pollen may also contribute to allergy symptoms, while mould levels remained low.

Pollen levels remain low in other cities

Gqeberha recorded low pollen levels across all categories, including trees, grasses and weeds. Mould levels were also low.

Potchefstroom also recorded low tree, grass and weed pollen concentrations, with low mould levels.

What should people with allergies know?

Pollen and mould can trigger symptoms such as sneezing, a runny or blocked nose, itchy eyes and breathing difficulties in sensitive people.

People who react to pollen can limit exposure by keeping windows closed when pollen levels are high, showering and changing clothes after spending time outdoors, and avoiding hanging laundry outside.

Those sensitive to mould should also avoid damp, poorly ventilated spaces where mould can grow.