Pollen levels in Rawalpindi, Islamabad climb to dangerous levels

RAWALPINDI: Pollen concentrations in the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad have surged to dangerous levels, with a leading eye hospital warning that the seasonal spike is fuelling a sharp increase in painful eye allergies across the region.

According to readings from the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), pollen counts in Islamabad's H-8 sector have reached 14,695 particles per cubic metre of air. The levels recorded in the G-6 and E-8 sectors stood at 5,510 and 5,391 particles per cubic metre, respectively.

Paper mulberry identified as dominant allergen

Paper mulberry was identified as the primary source of airborne pollen, accounting for 14,558 particles out of the total count, a figure classified as "very high" by the meteorological department. The pollen season in the region typically spans from mid-March through April, a period during which residents with allergies are most vulnerable.

Eye hospital warns of allergic conjunctivitis surge

The Al-Shifa Trust Eye Hospital has raised an alarm over the health impact of the elevated pollen levels. Prof Dr Inamul Haq, a senior consultant at the hospital, said the high concentration of airborne pollen was triggering allergic conjunctivitis — a condition in which the eyes become red, itchy and inflamed.

Dr Inamul Haq advised residents stepping outdoors to wear protective or large-frame sunglasses in order to block pollen from reaching their eyes. Ophthalmologists have cautioned that the seasonal surge poses a significant risk of painful eye allergies for people across Rawalpindi and Islamabad.

Precautionary measures urged

The warning from the Al-Shifa Trust Eye Hospital underscores the growing health concerns associated with the annual pollen season in the twin cities. With paper mulberry being the overwhelmingly dominant allergen, health professionals have urged residents — particularly those with pre-existing allergic conditions — to take adequate precautions when venturing outdoors during this period.

The dangerously high pollen readings recorded by the PMD across multiple sectors of Islamabad highlight the widespread nature of the problem, with counts in some areas nearly three times higher than in others. Residents have been advised to remain vigilant and seek medical attention promptly if they experience symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis or other pollen-related ailments.