Ford has launched a mobile app for allergy sufferers that enables drivers to check for symptoms such as scratchy eyes, sore throats and runny noses while they are at the wheel. Allergy Alert is the first health app that is compatible with Ford’s Sync AppLink platform and is available to drivers of certain Ford models.

Drivers can connect their smartphones or tablets in their cars and then use voice commands to access information from the app, which has been developed by IMS Health. Its release follows a series of health-related research projects started by Ford in Spring 2011. The Sync Applink platform is currently available in ten of the company's 2012 models.