More than a seasonal nuisance: why South Africans shouldn’t just live with hay fever
Viatris in South Africa, a part of Viatris (Nasdaq: VTRS), a global healthcare company today marks the start of spring in South Africa, and with it the beginning of allergy season. As warmer weather and rising pollen counts signal the arrival of spring, South Africans have been urged to identify that persistent allergy symptoms may be more than a seasonal nuisance. Allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever, affects between 10-40% of children and adults worldwide.[i]
Research has shown that many patients rely on self-medicating, managing their condition inconsistently, with limited success.[ii]
“Allergic rhinitis can significantly affect quality of life, from disrupted sleep and reduced concentration to impaired daily functioning,” says Professor Michael Levin, Head of Allergy Foundation South Africa Medical Advisory Board.
“What we often see in clinical practice is that patients normalise their symptoms or manage them inconsistently, rather than seeking appropriate care. This can delay effective treatment and, in some cases, worsen associated conditions.”
Allergic rhinitis is an important risk factor for developing asthma.[iii] Both the prevalence and consequences of allergic rhinitis have led the World Allergy Organization to label it a ‘global public health concern.’1
However, there are now a broad range of treatment options available to help patients manage allergic rhinitis appropriately. This includes combination nasal sprays, which are available over the counter without a prescription, improving access to evidence-based treatment options for adults seeking timely symptom relief.
Head of Medical Affairs at Viatris in South Africa, Verushka Hansrajh, says “raising awareness around allergic rhinitis and encouraging appropriate diagnosis and management is a critical part of improving patient outcomes.”
Hansrajh explains that many South Africans simply accept allergy symptoms as something they have to live with. “Yet allergic rhinitis is a recognised medical condition that can be effectively diagnosed and managed. The importance of allergic rhinitis is often overlooked or dismissed but by improving awareness, encouraging earlier conversations with healthcare professionals and supporting access to appropriate treatment options, we can help more people manage their symptoms effectively and improve their quality of life.”
Individualsexperiencing persistent symptoms such as nasal congestion, sneezing, itchy eyes, or a runny nose should consult a healthcare professional for proper assessment and treatment guidance.
For more information on allergies and allergic rhinitis, visit the Allergy Foundation of South Africa (AFSA) website at https://www.allergyfoundation.
