Early Pollen Surge Drives Spike in Hay Fever Doctor Visits
Research institute Nivel reports a sharp rise in doctor visits linked to a hay fever surge. Many people sought help as pollen levels climbed early this year. As a result, clinics saw a sudden increase in patients with allergy symptoms.
Last week, about 142 out of every 100,000 people visited a general practitioner. The week before, only 62 per 100,000 patients consulted a doctor. Therefore, the jump shows how quickly seasonal allergies can affect communities.
The numbers also exceed recent yearly trends. During the same week in 2025, around 92 people per 100,000 saw a doctor. In 2024, the figure was 89 per 100,000. Experts say the current hay fever surge reflects an unusually early pollen season.
Warm Weather Triggers Early Pollen Spread
Warm and sunny weather often increases pollen in the air. For example, temperatures in much of the Netherlands rose above 15°C last Wednesday. That day marked the country’s first official spring day of the year.
Maastricht recorded 19.3°C, setting a new record for February 25. As a result, trees released pollen earlier than expected. Alder and hazel trees cause most symptoms right now. These trees bloom first each year. Their male flowers, known as catkins, release large amounts of pollen. In addition, mild weather triggered them sooner than usual.
Winds and Climate Trends Extend Allergy Season:
Experts from LUMC say strong southern winds also played a role. These winds carried pollen from Belgium and France into the Netherlands. Therefore, pollen concentrations increased quickly across the region.
Scientists also see a longer-term pattern. Hazel trees now bloom about 40 days earlier than in 1977. Climate change likely drives this shift. However, many patients confuse allergies with seasonal illness. Doctors note that symptoms can resemble a cold or mild flu. For example, both conditions cause fatigue and head congestion.
Cold or Allergy? Doctors See More Confusion
Doctors say the ‘hay fever surge’ overlaps with the final weeks of flu season. Because of this timing, many people misread their symptoms.
For example, sneezing, blocked noses, and tiredness appear in both conditions. However, itchy eyes often signal allergies rather than a cold.
Therefore, experts encourage people to track pollen forecasts. Simple steps like closing windows during high pollen hours may also help. As the season begins earlier each year, awareness becomes more important.
