Durban residents all clogged up due fungal spores and mould
Common symptoms include a runny, itchy or congested nose, post-nasal drip, sore throat, itchy and/or watery eyes, which can last for months.
THE sudden flare-up of nasal allergies in Durban is likely due to the high levels of mould and fungal spores, which are being intensified by grass pollen this spring season. This is according to Prof Jonny Peter, Head of the UCT Lung Institute’s Allergy Unit.
The institute is responsible for monitoring pollen throughout South Africa and for the first time in more than 20 years, they are able to warn Durban residents of the type of airborne allergens that are in circulation and how they can better manage their symptoms.
“Durban is situated in a subtropical climate zone with high relative humidity and warm average temperatures, which is conducive to mould growth. In fact, of the seven South African cities currently being monitored for airborne allergens, Durban mould levels are the highest. High levels of Alternaria, Cladosporium and Epicoccum fungal spores have also been found in the atmosphere of the city, exacerbating symptoms for the estimated 3.3 million hay fever sufferers living in the area,” said Peter.
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Common symptoms include a runny, itchy or congested nose, post-nasal drip, sore throat, itchy and/or watery eyes, which can last for months.
He points out that asthma is already a big problem in Durban – partly due to high levels of pollution and humidity, but when the allergenic load is augmented by pollen, mould or fungal spores that are breathed in, it substantially increases the risk for sufferers.
Based on current models, experts predict that pollen levels will quadruple in the next 20 to 30 years, making life unbearable for those with pollen sensitivities. People who don’t normally suffer from hay fever may likely start to and asthma attacks may also increase.
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To find out more, visit www.pollencount.co.za. Up-to-date pollen counts for the Durban region can also be accessed here.
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