NORTHEAST WISCONSIN – Warmer temperatures across Wisconsin are bringing blooming trees and flowers, but they are also ushering in another familiar springtime problem: seasonal allergies. Shawano-Menominee Counties Health Director Nick Mau says this year’s allergy season has been especially severe as pollen levels continue climbing earlier in the year.
“Wisconsin seasonal allergies this year are severe,” Mau said. “April through May is really when we start seeing those tree pollen allergies really start rising, and every year that trend just kind of continues to increase earlier in the spring, just based on climate change.”
Mau says the biggest issue right now is tree pollen, though different allergens become more problematic as the seasons progress. Grass pollen typically peaks from mid-May into June, while ragweed allergies become more common during late summer and early fall.
“It’s really based on the season,” Mau explained. “Right now we’re in that tree pollen season from April to early June. Then from mid-May to June, that’s when those grass pollens are at their peak. Late summer and fall, like August and September, is ragweed season.”
Health officials encourage residents to identify the allergens they are most sensitive to so they can better prepare during peak times of the year. Mau says one of the best tools available is monitoring daily pollen and air quality reports.
“Monitor the pollen count. There’s really good interactive data kind of in real time that we’re starting to see,” Mau said. “The National Weather Service and even the State Department of Health Services are providing a daily air quality index.”
Mau noted that many smartphones now provide built-in pollen and air quality information directly through weather applications. On high pollen days, he recommends limiting time outdoors when possible.
“My iPhone weather app tells me the air quality severity of the day,” Mau said. “With that gives direction on this is a day you may want to remain indoors more than your usual schedule so that you’re limiting exposure.”
Beyond medications and monitoring pollen counts, Mau says residents can take several simple steps at home to reduce allergens. Keeping windows closed in homes and vehicles during high pollen days can help prevent pollen from circulating indoors. Frequent cleaning can also make a major difference.
“You can never clean too often,” Mau said. “Wash bedding in hot water, vacuum regularly, and if you have HEPA filters in the house, make sure they’re cleaned routinely.”
He also recommends showering and changing clothes after spending time outside to avoid bringing pollen into the home. Mau says pet owners should also be mindful of additional allergens like pet dander and mold that can worsen symptoms indoors.
“We want to make sure we’re cleaning our homes and even our cars more routinely so that we’re not as miserable as we have to be living with our family pets,” Mau said.
While many people manage allergies with over-the-counter medication, Mau says residents whose symptoms begin affecting sleep, work, school, or everyday life should speak with a doctor or pharmacist to develop a treatment plan.
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