Christmas Decor Dust: Your Tree Could Make You Sick!

As the festive season approaches, UK residents are advised that their beloved Christmas decorations could lead to illness. Dr. Neel Patel, a GP, cautions that common holiday decor can provoke allergy symptoms mimicking colds or COVID-19. Dust accumulated on items stored for extended periods is a primary culprit, containing allergens like pollen, mold spores, and dust mites.

Specific holiday items pose risks: Christmas trees can harbor contaminants, while scented candles release volatile organic compounds that irritate the respiratory system. Wreaths made from natural materials may also contain mold spores. Disturbed dust and spores become airborne, potentially causing sneezing, coughing, and congestion in sensitive individuals.

To prevent these reactions, Dr. Patel suggests wiping down decorations with a damp cloth before display and storing them in airtight containers. For those with sensitivities, opting for unscented candles or artificial decorations is recommended. Managing allergies typically involves avoiding triggers or using antihistamines, with severe cases requiring medical intervention.