Africa: Pollen Season - New Map of South Africa's Allergy Hotspots Gives You Time to Prepare

What the report says

A new South African pollen monitoring project has produced the country’s first five-year pollen calendars for several natural regions, giving allergy sufferers and doctors a clearer picture of when airborne allergens are most likely to peak. The analysis, published by The Conversation Africa and carried by AllAfrica, was released on 28 September 2026 and draws on work by researchers linked to the South African Pollen Monitoring Network.

The study covers inland grassland and savanna sites in Johannesburg, Bloemfontein, Pretoria and Kimberley, as well as coastal locations in Cape Town, Durban and Gqeberha. According to the report, grass pollen is the most widespread allergen across the country, while inland cities generally recorded heavier pollen loads and longer seasons than coastal areas. Bloemfontein had the highest overall pollen levels, Kimberley the highest average grass pollen concentration, and Johannesburg the most tree pollen. Cape Town stood out for the longest tree pollen season.

The researchers say the calendars could improve diagnosis, help patients time preventive medicines such as antihistamines or nasal sprays, and support public warnings during high-exposure periods. The article also notes that climate change may affect pollen seasons and that storms can contribute to “thunderstorm asthma,” a phenomenon that can trigger sudden asthma attacks when grass pollen is broken into smaller particles.

The report adds that some common urban pollen sources are from non-indigenous ornamental trees, which may be overlooked in allergy planning. The authors say further monitoring, including in rural areas, would help refine public health guidance.