High Cedar Pollen Levels Return for the Seventh Time in Ten Days

Highest Levels of Tree Pollen Detected in the United States for 2/26/2026

February 26, 2026

A VERY HIGH ALERT has been issued for tree pollen levels in Oklahoma City, marking the SIXTH VERY HIGH ALERT in the last ten days, and the SEVENTH HIGH or VERY HIGH ALERT in that same timeframe. Today’s counts are the highest reported in the U.S. and the second highest recorded this year.

Cedar and Elm (Chinese Elm, also known as Lacebark Elm) pollen counts are both registering in the VERY HIGH range. These counts represent an extreme exposure situation, with severe symptoms expected in pollen-sensitive individuals. Those with allergic bronchial asthma are strongly advised to stay indoors.

Today also marks the FOURTH DAY in the TOP TEN HIGHEST Cedar Season Days in the past five years. For all tree pollen seasons, it ranks as the SEVENTH highest day recorded in 20 years in Oklahoma City.

Cedar Fever and Regional Impact

Cedar tree pollen contributes to “Cedar Fever”, a winter allergy affecting millions across Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas, and Missouri. Unlike spring and summer allergies, Cedar Fever peaks from late November to February, with pollen grains capable of traveling hundreds of miles in Oklahoma winds.

Recommendations to Reduce Exposure

OAAC allergists recommend the following steps:

• Limit outdoor activities on high pollen days
• Keep windows closed at home and in vehicles
• Change clothes and shower after being outdoors
• Leave shoes at the door to avoid tracking pollen inside
• Wash hands frequently, especially after outdoor contact
• Wear a dust mask for outdoor chores
• Use and regularly replace HEPA filters in HVAC systems

Medical Management

• Continuous use of nasal sprays and antihistamines may help, but proper diagnosis is essential
• Seasonal allergies cannot be diagnosed by history alone. OAAC allergists offer simple tests to identify specific triggers

OAAC serves patients of all ages across the southwest region, with clinics in Edmond, Norman, northwest Oklahoma City, and the OU Health Sciences Center campus.

Contact and Appointment Information

Visit www.oklahomaallergy.com for clinic locations.
To schedule an appointment or request more information, call (405) 235-0040 or visit the website.

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