Sir: The onset of spring season in the capital has become a life-threatening affliction for those suffering from the curse of pollen allergy. It is a hypersensitive body response of our immune system to pollen seeds of plants and trees. Paper mulberry is its major root cause. Patients sensitive to pollen suffer allergy, irritation, running nose, itchy eyes, headache, severe cough and breathing problems after exposure to these pollen particles that are microscopic in size. The lack of awareness and carelessness has resulted in an increase in the number of pollen allergy patients in the last few years. Lack of governmental concern also resulted in increase in mulberry trees in Bani Gala and Bara Kahu areas. This year the pollen count was considerably lower due to a series of rains in the month of March. According to Pakistan Meteorological Department, the pollen count in the air has reached 20,644 per m3 in Islamabad. It may rise with sunny warm weather till mid-April. All the pollen allergy patients have been advised to wear allergy masks, avoid environmental exposure and take prescribed anti-allergy medicines. Nebulizers, inhalers, steroids dosage, bronchodilators and oxygen therapy are also used regularly in emergency situations. Anti-pollen vaccination within the season is not recommended due to its medical complications. All the hospitals including PIMS, Polyclinic and medical centres in the capital have taken considerable measures, including providing 24 hours service to treat pollen allergy patients. The Islamabad authorities have also set up 12 free relief camps for pollen allergy patients near Aabpara Community Centre. Homeopathic, allopathic and Tib-e-Yunani treatments will be given to patients. Senior doctors and specialists will examine patients free of charge. Separate counters have been set up for females, males and children. The facility of free medication will be provided to patients. A technical committee will be established to study the causes of pollen allergy and to find its cure. The pollen allergy awareness campaign has been launched to deliver health lectures regarding precaution, prevention and cure of pollen allergy. Pamphlets will be distributed in most affected areas of the capital like sectors E-8, F-8, G-7, H-8 and I-10. Although the government has cut down many mulberry trees in the capital, yet serious and immediate remedial measures are required for a long term solution of this grave problem. AYMEN IJAZ Islamabad