Climate change is having a significant impact on the pollen season in Denmark, leading to longer durations and higher intensity of pollen production. A study published in the journal Atmosphere found that the amount of pollen produced by plants has increased significantly since the 1980s, with grass pollen rising by 19% and birch pollen by 35%. This is attributed to higher levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, which can stimulate faster and more intense photosynthesis in plants. Pollen grains interacting with air pollutants and extreme weather events like thunderstorms are also aggravating respiratory diseases such as allergic rhinitis and asthma.
Tyra Grove Krause, of the Statens Serum Institut, notes that pollen outbreaks are now being observed in Germany as well, indicating a northward shift in pollen distribution. Allergy sufferer Mette Lund experiences symptoms throughout the year, exacerbated by the earlier onset of tree pollen allergies.
In addition to pollen-related allergies, climate change is also leading to an increase in infections and viruses, as warmer conditions provide ideal breeding grounds for mosquitos and ticks. Grove Krause warns that adverse weather events like heatwaves and flooding are causing more deaths, with floods exposing people to contaminated water sources that can spread a wide range of infections. It is clear that the impacts of climate change are not just limited to environmental changes, but also have direct consequences for human health.
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