About 15% of Israel's residents suffer from allergic reactions. Information on allergenic plants, their blooming periods and allergen quantities in the air is especially important for them. Avoiding exposure to allergens can prevent the problem in some cases and reduce suffering in other cases. This is especially important when it comes to the health of young children and health of immigrants who come to Israel from other climatic zones.

The blooming forecast of allergenic plants is based on the phenological status of plants at the Botanical Gardens of Tel Aviv University and is prepared by Prof. Amram Eshel and Ms. Valentina Epstein of Tel Aviv University. The forecast constitutes a general assessment only and may be significantly different from actual conditions in other regions of the country. The monitoring network for allergens in the air complements the existing air monitoring system, as is the case in many developed countries.

In parallel to the forecast of the current month, results of monitoring of pollen and spores in the previous month are published. The blooming forecast is published for general knowledge and does not constitute medical advice or an alternative to medical consultation. According to the guidelines of the Israel Association of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: "On days when a high allergen burden is expected the duration of outdoor stays near blooming centers should be lessened and windows should be closed to reduce the infiltration of allergens to the home. Allergy suffers should consult an allergy specialist for guidance and to determine the appropriate medical care for the prevention and reduction of allergy symptoms."

More Links:

	Allergen Monitoring System
	Forecast of Allergenic Plants - March 2010
	Air Quality Monitoring