As hay fever season gets into full gear, drugmakers and other companies are releasing another generation of products aimed at soothing watery eyes, runny noses and other symptoms of grass, tree or flower allergies.

The Environment Ministry said pollen began flying in earnest around mid-February, starting in Kyushu and spreading to the rest of the country.

The latest advances being marketed to deal the annual scourge include an oral drug, masks that leave makeup intact, treatments for keeping eyeglasses fog-free, and a small portable air purifier.