Achoo! Allergy season is in full bloom this week in Essex County. According to Pollen.com, the allergy level reached 10.3 out of a possible 12 Tuesday. 

Sniff, sniff. Pollen is predominantly coming from birch, maple and oak trees in the area, says the website which provides allergy news and information. Lower temperatures and higher dew points brought some relief Wednesday.

However, keep those tissues handy. The allergy levels will remain high all week, according to Pollen.com's 4-Day Allergy Forecast. Head to CVS, Terry's Drugs, or Walgreens to stock up on antihistamines to help alleviate symptoms. 

Since all this sneezing and wheezing may have you avoiding the outdoors, we bring you a pollen-free look at what you are missing. Rub your eyes and enjoy this photo gallery of flowers and those blooming trees that, however beautiful, bring seasonal misery.

Gesundheit.