HAYFEVER sufferers are being warned to take care while using medication that could cause drowsiness.

The risk of accidents caused by drowsiness rises as pollen counts soar, according to fleet management firm Masterlease.

Antihistamine medication, used to combat hay fever, is often bought over the counter and without consultation and can cause tiredness.  About 12 million people suffer from hayfever.

Gavin Jones, Masterlease’s head of risk management service, ProAct, said: ‘Company car drivers can also ask about pollen filters for their car, which prevent pollen getting through the air conditioning and air vents.’