Early and Intense Pollen Season Predicted for Spring 2026 in Spain

Millions in Spain, particularly in Andalusia, are bracing for an unusually early and intense pollen season in 2026, according to Dr. María Ortega Camarero, a specialist in Allergology at Hospital Quirónsalud Infanta Luisa in Seville. The prediction stems from a unique weather pattern combining persistent winter rains followed by a progressive rise in temperatures.

Unusual Weather Pattern Fuels Pollen Production

The combination of abundant winter rainfall and increasing temperatures has created ideal conditions for significantly increased vegetation growth. This, in turn, is expected to lead to an earlier and more substantial release of pollen from key allergenic species. Dr. Ortega Camarero notes that cypress trees, typically pollinating in winter, already showed elevated pollen levels in February in Andalusia, with peaks potentially reaching critical levels for allergy sufferers.¹

Pollen Peaks and Species of Concern

Pollen levels began high in central and southeastern Spain and subsequently spread to the southwest, where peaks of 500 grains per cubic meter of air were recorded.¹ The pollination of shade platanes, usually occurring in mid-spring, is similarly predicted to start earlier and last longer, increasing allergic pressure in urban areas. Grass and olive pollination, particularly high in Extremadura and Andalusia, will follow.¹

Increased Humidity and Fungal Spores

The abundant rainfall isn’t just impacting pollen production; it’s also contributing to the proliferation of allergenic fungal spores, such as Alternaria, Aspergillus, and Cladosporidium. These spores, found both outdoors and indoors, can exacerbate respiratory symptoms in individuals with rhinoconjunctivitis and/or bronchial asthma.¹ The presence of these spores often coincides with pollination, potentially intensifying symptoms.

Recommendations for Allergy Sufferers

Dr. Ortega Camarero recommends several measures to reduce pollen exposure during peak concentration periods:¹

• Consult daily pollen levels before outdoor activities.
• Keep windows closed during times of high environmental pollen load.
• Install pollen filters in home and car ventilation systems.
• Avoid intense outdoor exercise, especially at dawn and dusk.
• Shower and change clothes upon returning home to remove pollen.

Distinguishing Between Allergies and Infections

It is crucial to differentiate between respiratory allergies and respiratory infections, as their origins and treatments differ.¹ Allergic rhinitis or asthma typically presents with intense itching in the nose and eyes, clear mucus, repeated sneezing, and no fever. Asthma may also involve a persistent cough, chest tightness, or wheezing. Respiratory infections, caused by viruses or bacteria, usually involve thicker mucus, sore throat, general malaise, fever, chills, and muscle pain.

Quirónsalud’s Presence in Andalusia

Quirónsalud currently operates eight hospital centers in Andalusia, located in Málaga, Marbella, Los Barrios (Cádiz), Seville (three locations), Córdoba, and Huelva, along with 19 specialty medical centers and two surgical day hospitals.¹

Dr. Ortega Camarero emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis, regular monitoring, and proactive prevention given the current climatic and environmental conditions, which are contributing to a more early, intense, and prolonged allergy season than in recent years.