Pollen in the car: Precautions for allergy sufferers

The European Centre for Allergy Research Foundation (ECARF) gives advice on how to steer safely through the hay fever season

Spring has arrived, and with it pollen and hay fever. For almost a quarter of adults, or about 15 million people in Germany, this means a dripping nose, teary eyes and heavy sneezing. Allergies can be dangerous in traffic, particularly if a high concentration of pollen collects inside a vehicle and causes an allergic reaction in the driver:

“During sneezing or in periods of breathing difficulty or headache, drivers can experience severe loss of concentration and the risk of an accident increases”, says Prof. Dr. med. Torsten Zuberbier, head of the European Centre for Allergy Research Foundation (ECARF). “This does not mean that allergy sufferers must leave the car at home, however. Risks can be reduced significantly, primarily through adequate medical treatment.”

Pollen filters installed at the air vents under the windshield have also proven effective in collecting pollen before it can spread through the interior of the car. For best results, car windows must be kept closed and filters must be replaced regularly. Built-in pollen filters are included in several car models, and filters can be installed in many older vehicles.

Other measures

In addition to pollen filters, there are other precautions allergy patients can take in using their cars during the hay fever season. Jackets and coats can be stored in the boot after walks outdoors, so that pollen on clothing does not disperse in the car’s interior. Parking directly beneath trees should be avoided when possible.

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