(2) what action her Department is taking (a) to mitigate the risks of high pollen levels and (b) to reduce the projected number of hay fever cases in the summer months;
(3) what assessment she has made of the potential links between global warming, environmental change and the levels of hay fever in the United Kingdom; and if she will make a statement.
We are taking no specific action to reduce the levels of hay fever, or mitigate the risks of high pollen levels. However, NHS Direct, NHS Direct on line and NHS Direct interactive have been established to provide advice and information on health and self-care. Through these services, people suffering from hay fever have access to information to help them manage their condition and minimise their exposure to pollen. Over the counter and prescription medicines are also available to alleviate the associated symptoms of this condition.
We have not assessed the potential links between global warming, environmental change and levels of hay fever in the United Kingdom.