With the arrival of summer and an increase in outdoor activities, concerns over tick bites and their potential consequences are growing. Amongst these worries, the lone-star tick has gained particular attention due to its association with alpha-gal syndrome (AGS), a serious allergic reaction to red meat and other mammal products. Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has revealed the states most affected by this emerging condition.

Alpha-gal syndrome is an allergic condition that is triggered by the bite of the lone star tick. Unlike other allergies, AGS can result in severe reactions hours after consuming red meat or products derived from mammals such as milk or gelatin-coated medications. The CDC has reported a significant increase in suspected AGS cases in the United States since 2010. According to their data, between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2022, a total of 90,018 people were classified as having suspected AGS in the country. During the study period, there was an estimated increase of approximately 15,000 new suspected cases each year.

The Mayo Clinic explains that AGS begins with the bite of the lone star tick, which transfers a sugar molecule called alpha-gal into the body. In certain individuals, this triggers an immune system response that leads to a mild to severe allergic reaction to red meat, including pork and lamb. It can also cause reactions to other mammal-derived foods such as gelatins and dairy products. The states with established populations of lone star ticks, particularly in the southern, midwestern, and mid-Atlantic regions, have reported the highest number of AGS cases.

Unfortunately, there is no specific treatment for AGS other than avoiding red meat and mammal products. Symptoms typically appear within three to six hours after exposure. Individuals who have been bitten by a lone star tick may experience a range of AGS symptoms, including hives or itching, itchy or scaly skin, swelling of the lips, face, tongue, throat, or other body parts, wheezing or shortness of breath, and stomach issues such as pain, diarrhea, upset stomach, or vomiting. In severe cases, seeking immediate medical treatment is crucial if rapid or weak pulse, dizziness or lightheadedness, drooling and difficulty swallowing, or full-body redness and warmth called flushing occur.

The increasing number of AGS cases highlights the importance of preventive measures. The Mayo Clinic recommends wearing long pants and long-sleeved shirts when in grassy wooded areas, using bug spray, and conducting thorough tick checks on the body after spending time outdoors. Furthermore, enhancing awareness and education among healthcare providers is essential. Surveys indicate that almost half of healthcare providers are not familiar with AGS, while those aware often lack confidence in diagnosing and managing the condition.

As climate change continues to alter tick habitats, ongoing surveillance and adaptive public health responses are crucial in managing the spread of AGS and other tick-borne diseases. It is imperative to stay informed and take necessary precautions to protect against tick bites and potential allergic reactions.