An Edinburgh forecast has warned of high allergens and probable hay fever for the upcoming week despite seasonably low grass, tree, and pollen counts.
Asthma and other respiratory problems as well as the very old and the very young are most likely to be impacted by the allergen spike.
AccuWeather has warned that mould and spore counts will likely jump from moderate to high on Thursday, increasing the likelihood of reactions and hay fever.
“The risk of mould allergy symptoms is high. Remove your shoes as soon as you return inside,” AccuWeather advised.
AccuWeather provides daily allergen forecasts and information alongside weather forecasts for locations around the world.
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On Wednesday, the service predicted high mould counts in Edinburgh for the next six days.
The weather service explained that mould allergies are triggered by spores from moulds and other fungi.
“It can grow indoors and outdoors. Mould is found in all geographic areas and grows during all seasons,” the service said.
The NHS has previously warned that damp and mould can seriously affect health and wellbeing.
“If you have damp and mould in your home you're more likely to have respiratory problems, respiratory infections, allergies or asthma. Damp and mould can also affect the immune system,” the NHS said online.
The NHS explained that moulds produce allergens, irritants and sometimes toxic substances.
“Inhaling or touching mould spores may cause an allergic reaction, such as sneezing, a runny nose, red eyes and skin rash. Moulds can also cause asthma attacks,” the NHS said.
Accuweather advised that indoor humidity should be kept below 45 percent to avoid mould and mildew build up.
“Increase the airflow inside your home, especially in bathrooms and the basement,” Accuweather said.
Accuweather also forecast moderate levels of dust and dander on Wednesday, but predicted those levels would fall to low levels from Thursday through the rest of the week.
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