Why Illinoisans Are Warned To Avoid Pumpkin Decorations Specifically This Fall

Maybe go for the skeleton decorations this year.

You cannot walk into a home decor store (or really any store) without first being smacked in the proverbial face by pumpkin decorations. However cheesy, minimalist, or bright they are, you're faced with pumpkins.

Now this year, Illinois allergy experts are warning residents that it's a good year to skip decorating with actual pumpkins.

Allergist and Immunologist Dr. Rachna Shah, who heads up Loyola Medicine's pollen count in Chicago, told NBC Chicago that the area is facing a risk this fall they haven't seen since 2014.

Specifically, really high levels of mold.

Decor like real pumpkins and corn stalks can grow a lot of mold, which is a great contribution to a nasty allergy season. The higher mold level is because of recent rain, warmer temperatures, combined with the start of decaying leaves has led to the development of a mold called cladosporium.

Add to it that, says Dr. Shah, ragweed season started earlier this year so that's already kicked into the allergy mix.

She says it's fine to decorate with the pumpkins and real stuff inside but not out.

Whatever Helps Curtail The Allergies

Basically, not putting out the real pumpkins is a great way to at least deter more allergens from getting in or around your house. Between the ragweed level and the record-high mold level now, we could be in for a rough winter allergy season.

Dr. Shah says wearing a mask while you rake leaves can help, antihistamines like Allegra, Claritin, or Zyrtec are good. She says allergy eyedrops and nasal spray can help allergy symptoms too.