The National Aerobiological Surveillance Network warns of the first ragweed pollen peak. He advises allergy sufferers to start their treatment or consult a doctor.
Despite the weather conditions which are not very favorable, the ragweeds have started to flower. A first pollen peak is currently observed, in particular in Nevers, and from the Lyonnaise region to Orange. The national aerobiological surveillance network (RNSA) indicated Thursday August 14 that the allergic risk was medium to high in Lyon.
Ambrosia is a herbaceous plant, which can trigger severe allergies. It is a kind of weed, which grows everywhere. When its flowers develop in summer, they release thousands of grains of pollen. And this can lead to conjunctivitis, rhinitis, or even asthma attacks.
1.2 million French people allergic to ragweed
In the Rhône-Alpes region alone, 10 to 20% of the population is allergic to ragweed pollen. And it is estimated that 1.2 million French people are allergic to this plant. Last year, a UMP deputy from Isère, Alain Moyne-Bressand, tabled a bill in the National Assembly to make the fight against ambrosia compulsory throughout the country. He demanded that “any legal occupant of a plot” be forced to uproot the plant before flowering. The economic consequences are heavy because the effects of ambrosia cost between 12 and 20 million euros per year to health insurance for the Rhones-Alpes region alone.
Report ragweed plants
For now, the RNSA advises all allergic to ragweed pollen to start their treatment or to consult a doctor. A toll-free number * has been installed, as well as a website. They must allow the public to spot and report ragweed plants in order to get rid of them. Toll free number: 0 800 869 869
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