UPDATE: Cedar fever season has hit its peak in Tarrant, Texas, triggering severe allergy symptoms for thousands. With nearly 1 in 5 Texans affected, residents are urged to take precautions as pollen levels soar.
As of January 8, 2026, experts at Baylor Scott & White report that symptoms such as itchy eyes, runny noses, and sore throats are rampant due to pollen from the native Ashe juniper trees. These trees, commonly known as mountain cedar, release substantial amounts of pollen this time of year, particularly influenced by recent weather patterns.
Dr. David Winter, a physician at Baylor Scott & White, warns that cedar fever can easily be confused with COVID-19 or the flu. “A lot of things can mimic this. At this time of year, it’s kind of confusing,” he stated. Health officials emphasize the need for testing if symptoms arise to rule out more serious conditions.
The current spike in cedar pollen is exacerbated by the mix of cold fronts and warmer-than-usual winter days, leading to increased allergen exposure. According to Pollen.com, Fort Worth has seen high pollen counts since mid-December, making this an especially challenging season for allergy sufferers.
While cedar fever is not contagious, it can still disrupt daily life. Symptoms include congestion, headaches, sneezing, and fatigue, which can be distressing for those affected. As such, allergy treatments are essential. Dr. Winter suggests common over-the-counter medications, including Zyrtec and Claritin, to alleviate symptoms. “All those things you can get without going to a doctor over the counter. You just want to make sure that that’s what your diagnosis is,” he advised.
Residents are encouraged to monitor pollen levels and take protective measures during peak times. This includes staying indoors on high pollen days and using air purifiers to reduce indoor allergens.
As the cedar fever season continues, the community is reminded to remain vigilant and proactive in managing their health. Health officials are actively monitoring pollen levels and will provide further updates as the situation develops.
Stay tuned for more urgent updates on this developing story impacting residents across North Texas.
For any health inquiries or to report severe symptoms, contact local health authorities.
