Islamabad: Pollen count skyrockets in the capital

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) reported alarming pollen counts for the capital, with at-risk people cautioned to take precautions.

As per PMD, the pollen levels in the capital have reached concerning heights, especially for paper mulberry, which recorded a whopping count of 41,276 grains per cubic metre; categorising it as “very high”.

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The PMD’s report highlights the potential health risks associated with such alarming pollen levels, particularly for those with respiratory conditions or allergies.

The level of recorded pollen in Islamabad is also expected to affect almost anyone with sensitivities, with extremely sensitive people potentially experiencing severe symptoms.

The PMD’s data indicates that other pollen types, including pines, grasses and cannabis, also present high levels of allergens. Pine pollen counts were recorded at 45, 108, 89 and 95 across different monitoring stations, while ‘grasses’ showed counts of 104, 148, 142 and 112. Cannabis pollen levels were similarly high, with counts of 62, 124, 114 and 101.

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Meanwhile, eucalyptus and dandelion pollen levels remained low, with eucalyptus showing negligible counts and dandelion ranging from 0 to 6.

Besides to pollen concerns, Islamabad’s air quality index (AQI) stands at 103. The data was sourced from the Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service.

Meanwhile, PM2.5 was also identified as the dominant pollutant. PM2.5 particles, which are tiny enough to penetrate deep into the respiratory system, can irritate the eyes, nose and throat. Long-term exposure is known to exacerbate heart and lung diseases.

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Nearby pollution monitors such as the one located in Rawalpindi, reported PM2.5 levels at 54.71 µg/m³ , and PM10 levels at 67.68 µg/m³. PM10 consists of particulate matter smaller than 10 micrometres, posing health risks when inhaled.