Hay fever spikes as summer pollen sweeps across Germany this Pentecost

Pollen allergies are surging as summer weather arrives over the Pentecost weekend. Grass pollen, the main trigger, is causing widespread discomfort across Germany. New figures show a steady rise in hay fever cases over the past decade. Grass pollen levels usually peak between May and July, though mild temperatures can extend the season. The immune system’s overreaction to pollen particles leads to symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, and congestion. In 2024, one in every 18 insured individuals sought medical help for hay fever.

Hesse and North Rhine-Westphalia report the highest numbers of allergy sufferers. Bavaria follows in third place for hay fever cases. Meanwhile, Schleswig-Holstein has the fewest recorded incidents. Data also reveals a 5.2 percent increase in affected individuals since 2014.

The combination of summer weather and high grass pollen levels is driving up hay fever cases. More people are now seeking treatment compared to previous years. Experts expect the trend to continue unless conditions change significantly.