A survey of people with seasonal allergies shows they’re more wary this year of being judged as having COVID-19.
The Shoppers Drug Mart Annual Allergy Index found about a third more people were concerned this year with stigma surrounding the virus.
The survey shows the worry is even more prevalent among young people under the age of 20 who suffer from symptoms of seasonal allergies.
St. John’s pharmacist Keith Bailey says for them, this was already the toughest time of year.
He says for Newfoundland and Labrador, this is the height of allergy season. Baily says from now until early July is peak season.
If there’s a bright side, Bailey says it’s the benefits that come with wearing a mask.
He says they can reduce the effects of pollin just as they’ve cut into cases of the flu.