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Image: REUTERS/Darren Staples

Allergy season has us worried sneezing judgement

By Wes Styles Apr 6, 2021 | 7:56 AM

Allergy season is here and that means sneezing — during a pandemic. Of course with people on high alert you might get looked at for an allergy sneeze and that has people worried, according to a survey.

Over half (56%) are ‘feeling the heat of judgmental eyes’ after sneezing or coughing. 55% say they felt a slight moment of panic when had that urge to sneeze thinking things like ‘Oh great now I’m sick’ or ‘Hold it in!’ Another common thought was ‘I hope I don’t have snot in my mask.’

While we’re worried about being judged, we’re also judging. 37% say when they see a stranger sneeze they’re thinking ‘I hope they’re not sick.’

TOP THOUGHTS WHEN SNEEZING/COUGHING IN PUBLIC DURING COVID

  • “Great, now people think I’m sick.” – 37%
  • “Oh no, I hope they don’t think I’m sick.” – 35%
  • “I promise I’m not sick.” – 29%
  • “Hold it in!” – 27%
  • “I hope I don’t have snot in my mask.” – 24%
  • “It’s just allergies, I swear.” – 24%
  • “Where’s my hand sanitizer?” – 18%
  • “Oh no, am I sick?” – 12%
  • “I need to get allergy medicine.” – 10%

TOP 10 WORST PARTS OF SEASONAL ALLERGIES

  • Nasal Congestion – 42%
  • Runny nose – 42%
  • Itchy and/or watery eyes – 38%
  • Sneezing/coughing in public – 33%
  • Sneezing fits for no reason – 28%
  • Constant tickle in my throat – 23%
  • Coughing fits for no reason – 21%
  • Running out or not having immediate access to tissues after a sneezing fit – 19%
  • Having a hard time sleeping – 18%
  • Finding an allergy medicine that works for me – 15%

[SWNS/Flonase]