Editing Platanus (section)

==Effects on humans==

There have been cases of "platanus cough", symptoms of shortness of breath, coughing, and irritated eyes, which may affect several people in a place, and have led to initial suspicion of an attack with an irritant gas. After one such mass attack which affected schoolchildren in classrooms with open windows densely surrounded by plane tees, children had to be admitted to hospital, where they were treated and recovered without ill effects. It was found that the symptoms were due to the fine star-shaped [[trichome]]s (hairs) on all parts of platanus trees, which are broken off by strong wind after a prolonged dry period. The dust created causes direct irritation and scratchiness in the eyes, throat, and nose, but not the runny nose and itching eyes and nose caused by an [[allergy]]. The school incident took place after a dry period, with a fairly high temperature of {{convert|29|C}}, and wind blowing at {{cvt|50|km/h}}.<ref name=eppinger>{{cite web | title=What Are Platanus Cough and Thunderstorm Asthma? |first=Ute|last=Eppinger|publisher=Medscape | date=15 April 2024 | url=https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/what-are-platanus-cough-and-thunderstorm-asthma-2024a100073q}}</ref>

Protection against platanus cough is provided by avoiding contact and wearing protective glasses and masks under weather conditions promoting release of trichomes. When cleaning in an urban environment, sweeping up fallen leaves and branches can release hairs; cleaning by suction is preferred. It is not recommended that trees in cities be felled, as they are beneficial; in particular the platanus trichomes act as biofilters for air pollutants. Where there are urban concentrations presenting a risk, seasonal spraying of trees with a solution of apple pectin can prevent the star hair from breaking off.<ref name=eppinger/>