Hay fever sufferers have been urged urged to stay indoors for five hours each day over the Easter weekend to avoid their allergies being triggered. Allan Green, an expert at Weldricks Pharmacy, said pollen levels were typically highest during the late morning and early afternoon, with maximum intensity at around midday. He advised parents with hay fever or children who suffer to avoid outdoor Easter activities between 9am and 2pm.

Mr Green said: “If you’re a hay fever sufferer yourself, or you have little ones who are affected by allergies, it can be extremely frustrating not being able to participate in Easter bank holiday weekend activities because you’re worried about a nasty flare-up – no one wants watery eyes or a sneezing fit in the middle of an Easter egg hunt or picnic.

“Luckily, hay fever sufferers can still enjoy the great outdoors if they’re careful with the times they choose to venture out. 

“Pollen counts are typically at the lowest early in the morning (before 9am), though this can be a difficult time for families to enjoy the outdoors.”

Mr Green said the mid-afternoon and early evening could provide a “sweet spot” for families to enjoy time outdoors.

He added: “This is because pollen levels tend to be at their lowest during these times, due to cooler temperatures and higher humidity preventing large volumes of pollen from becoming airborne.”

Around 13 million people in the UK are thought to suffer from hay fever. Symptoms are currently being caused by tree pollen, which is released earlier in the year than grass pollen.

Sticking to locations away from open fields, grasslands or areas with lots of trees may help reduce exposure, Mr Green said

And when going outside during the midday hours is unavoidable, the expert recommended taking hay fever tablets.

He added: “If you have the option, you could always head to the coast, where trees, flowers and grasses are less concentrated, and the sea air is able to help blow the pollen away.”