Oklahoma Sees High Cedar Allergy Index

Oklahomans may be experiencing Cedar Fever, an allergic reaction with symptoms that can mimic the flu and COVID-19.

The most recent Oklahoma Allergy and Asthma Clinic Pollen and Mold Report shows the cedar index is high. The Texas A&M Forest Service said that’s because of the allergic reactions caused by the mountain cedar trees releasing pollen.

The service said the cedar tree’s favorite time to release the pollen is after a cold front. That’s when the air dries out, the pressure is different, and every pollen cone on a Juniper tree will open around the same time.

It can cause an effect that looks like the tree is on fire and smoking.

Image Provided By: From Texas A&M Forest Service

The service said even if you’re not allergic to pollen, the particles are so concentrated it can still affect you.

This has recently been a big problem in the Arbuckle Mountains and Central Texas. Our News 9 weather team said Wednesday’s strong winds from the south carried the plumes through Oklahoma.

Some of the Cedar Fever symptoms can be mistaken for COVID-19, like aches and pains, sore throat, runny nose, fatigue, loss of smell and even a fever.

The forestry service reports Cedar Fever patients rarely get a high fever of 101.5F like many COVID-19 patients.