Canberra's worst day for hayfever sufferers in a decade

The ANU reported the largest number of grass pollens it's ever had in more than 10 years of monitoring.

"Today we recorded the highest level of grass pollen that we've ever recorded in our monitoring program," ANU Professor Simon Haberle said.

"And that is significant because grass is one of the primary causes of hay fever and asthma suffering in in Canberra."

Unfortunately with strong north-west winds and warm weather predicted, Dr Haberle said the next few weeks weren't going to be much better.

"One of the things that we've noticed this year is that particularly over the last week or so, the amount of grass pollen here has been very high," he said.

"And that, I think, is because we've had a very wet winter and spring. And just recently, the temperature is also starting to get warmer.

"And because of it that's brought on the pollen production in the grasses. So right now we're seeing a lot of grass pollen being produced. And I think that's going to continue for the next several weeks."

While most asthma and hayfever sufferers know how to manage their condition, Dr Haberle recommend they continue the well-practiced habit of wearing masks to keep well.

"A lot of grass pollen from [comes] from pastures around Canberra when you've got strong windy days ... [so] you can take precautions like staying inside or wearing a mask. We're all used to that now," he said.

You can track pollen in Canberra at www.canberrapollen.com.au.

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