Hay fever breakthrough as 27,000 eligible for new treatment

Thousands of hay fever sufferers are set to benefit from a breakthrough new remedy being made available on the NHS. Up to 27,000 people in England are expected to be eligible for a daily under-the-tongue tablet that builds resistance to birch tree pollen.

Instead of simply masking symptoms, betula verrucosa contains birch pollen allergen extract and trains the immune system to tolerate the pollen over three years. It will be offered to patients whose symptoms persist after trying antihistamines and nasal sprays, and who test positive for sensitivity to birch pollen.

The treatment is the first immunotherapy approved for this type of tree pollen allergy by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). It has a list price of £80.12 for 30 tablets but the NHS may have negotiated a discount.

Amena Warner, head of clinical services at Allergy UK, said the tablet could improve quality of life for thousands of hay fever sufferers.

She explained: "Many people don't realise how awful it is having an itchy, runny nose, sneezing episodes or itchy, irritated eyes in the pollen season.

"We frequently hear from people who avoid time outdoors, keep doors and windows shut, check pollen counts and try and minimise any exposure, which takes a significant toll on their physical and emotional well-being.

"NICE's recommendation is so important because it provides a genuine opportunity for people to manage the root cause of their pollen allergy, offering the chance to break free from this burden and enjoy a better quality of life."

The approval comes as experts have warned that this year's tree pollen season has started early due to warmer than usual weather.

Helen Knight, director of medicines evaluation at NICE, said: "This treatment will help improve people's quality of life.

"Severe tree pollen allergies trap people indoors during beautiful weather and disrupt their work, education, and family life.

"The daily tablet offers genuine long-term relief rather than just managing symptoms."