Variability in the Betula pollen concentrations in the atmosphere of six urban areas in Slovakia in 2018

Abstract

Betula pollen is one of the most important aeroallergens during the spring months in the central European countries. In 2018, pollen monitoring was conducted in six urban areas (Bratislava, Banská Bystrica, Košice, Nitra, Trnava, and Žilina) in Slovakia. Investigations were carried out using a volumetric Hirst-type pollen trap (Burkard). Betula pollen season timing was determined by the 90% method when the start and end of the season were defined as the date when 5% and 95%, respectively of the total pollen sum was reached. The pollen season start date was recorded earliest in Bratislava (April 8th) and latest in Banská Bystrica (April 12th). The highest both seasonal total pollen concentration (7,390 P/m3) and birch pollen allergen risk were found in Banská Bystrica. The shortest pollen season was recorded in Žilina (13 days) and the longest in Košice (25 days). Peak daily pollen concentrations ranged between 1,567 P/m3 in Žilina and 202 P/m3 in Košice.