Tick Species That Can Cause Meat Allergy And Other Illnesses Is Spreading Across The US, Study Suggests

Forbes (7.9.2024) published the article, “Tick Species That Can Cause Meat Allergy And Other Illnesses Is Spreading Across The US, Study Suggests.” The lone star tick, known for causing alpha-gal syndrome (a red meat allergy) and other illnesses, is expanding beyond its southeastern U.S. habitat due to climate change, according to a study by the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, and Walter Reed.

The primary cause of alpha-gal syndrome in the U.S. is bites from the lone star tick, leading to allergic reactions to alpha-gal sugar found in mammalian meats and dairy products. The lone star tick is named for the white dot resembling the lone star flag on the backs of adult female ticks, which are the most likely to bite humans. While the lone star tick is less likely to spread Lyme disease compared to the blacklegged tick, it is more aggressive and more likely to bite. Besides alpha-gal syndrome, lone star tick bites can also transmit Heartland virus and tularemia (rabbit fever), which can cause nausea and fever, and tularemia. It can be deadly if not properly treated.

The tick’s range has spread north and west, possibly due to longer warm seasons caused by climate change. The tick has been found as far north as Maine and as far west as Wyoming. Tick season in the U.S. is primarily in the summer months, and the lone star tick is primarily active between April and August. However, tick bites can occur year-round. Ticks are commonly found in wooded and grassy areas, including backyards.

The CDC recommends using EPA-registered bug repellents and treating clothing with permethrin products to prevent tick bites. It’s estimated there were 110,000 suspected cases of alpha-gal syndrome in the U.S. between 2010 and 2022, possibly as high as 450,000 due to diagnostic challenges. Symptoms include hives, nausea, swelling of the lips and tongue, and severe stomach pain, appearing 2-6 hours after consuming alpha-gal sugar.

For More Information: 

Read The Forbes Article here.

Read more about Alpha-Gal Meat Allergy on the LDA website here.

Read more articles about Alpha-Gal Meat Allergy on the LDA website here.

Read more about Heartland virus on the LDA website here.