The increased pollen in the air can trigger symptoms of allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and asthma. Hay fever is a common and debilitating condition affecting an estimated 1 in 5 Australians. Hay fever is caused by the nose and/or eyes coming into contact with environmental allergens, such as pollens, dust mites, moulds and animal hair. Please remind your child if they have hay fever to carry their medication with them to school. 

Some of the symptoms of hay fever include; 

• Frequent sneezing 
• Runny, itchy or blocked nose 
• Itchy, watery eyes 
• Itchy roof of the mouth 
• Headache 

If hay fever is left untreated, it can lead to poor quality sleep and tiredness which can affect your child’s concentration and learning.  

Seek advice from your pharmacist or GP about medications that will relieve symptoms.  

Gráinne Hehir

School Nurse