By Shelby Shank
Field Editor

Cedar fever season has arrived in Texas.

Cedar fever is an allergic reaction to the pollen released from mountain cedar trees, also known as Ashe junipers. These trees are abundant in the Hill Country west of I-35, making the region a hotspot for cedar fever outbreaks.

“Cedar fever is irritating to many due to the quantity and density of Ashe junipers in Central Texas that all produce pollen at the same time, which leads to a high concentration of pollen in the air,” said Robert Edmonson, Texas A&M Forest Service biologist and certified arborist.

While the pollen isn’t particularly allergenic or harmful, the sheer volume overwhelms the body, which perceives it as a threat and begins to fight it. Even those without allergies may be affected, as wind carries the pollen far from areas with many juniper trees.

And the source isn’t limited to junipers. In eastern parts of the state, eastern red cedars pollinate around the same time and can cause a similar response from people’s autoimmune systems.

Unlike most trees that pollinate in the spring, junipers release their pollen in the winter from mid-December through early March. Colder weather or the passage of a cold front triggers large pollen releases.

“Cold fronts are marked by very dry and windy conditions with rapid pressure changes, which trigger pollen cones to open and release pollen grains,” Edmonson said. “In certain conditions, you can even see the pollen blowing off trees.”

Cedar fever symptoms can mimic a cold or the flu, including fatigue, sore throat, runny nose, partial loss of smell and even a mild fever.

To combat cedar fever, individuals can use allergy medications and antihistamines to ease symptoms and invest in home air purifiers. Keeping windows and doors closed and minimizing outdoor activities on heavy pollen days can reduce exposure.

Despite the discomfort cedar fever causes, removing juniper trees isn’t a practical solution. Since pollen travels through the air, individual tree removal won’t significantly reduce exposure.

While cedar fever may be unavoidable, understanding the causes and taking preventive measures can help Texans navigate this season with less irritation.