Amidst warming temperatures, tree pollen counts in Eugene have reached 鈥渧ery high鈥� levels, according to Oregon Allergy Associates.
Melanie Wayne, a nurse practitioner at OAA, said this year鈥檚 unusual weather is responsible.
鈥淭he plants are trying to get their genetic material out for pollination," she said. "They're taking advantage of a smaller window of time. And it's much more forceful.鈥�
Wayne says grass pollen will likely emerge later this spring than in previous years. But she said the season could hit hard and fast once it begins.
According to Wayne, the public can protect themselves with sunglasses and masks. And she recommends starting medication regimens early, as some treatments may take time to begin working.
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