What is alpha-gal syndrome? New concern about bizarre red meat allergy linked to ticks

New cases of alpha-gal syndrome — a rare but potentially life-threatening illness that makes people violently allergic to red meat — suggest that more tick species may be to blame than initially thought.

Neither of the two new female patients — one a 45-year-old in Maine and the other a 61-year-old in Washington — had been in areas where the lone star tick is commonly found.

Scientists consider these human biters the main AGS culprit, but these new cases shift the blame to deer and western black-legged ticks.

This new evidence raises concerns about the spread of AGS, particularly in regions like Long Island, where ticks are a growing problem.

What is alpha-gal syndrome?

AGS is a serious allergic reaction triggered by a sugar molecule called alpha-gal, which is found in most mammalian meat.

When certain ticks bite humans, they can transfer alpha-gal into the bloodstream, causing their victims to develop a severe response to red meat consumption.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that up to 450,000 people in the US have alpha-gal syndrome. Cases have been increasing since 2010, according to the agency.

What are the symptoms of alpha-gal syndrome?

Most people develop symptoms two to six hours after eating red meat products such as beef, pork and lamb.

Some common symptoms include:

• Itchy skin or rashes
• Stomach pain, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
• Dizziness or fainting
• Difficulty breathing or anaphylaxis in severe cases

Where are these ticks common?

Most AGS cases are reported in areas the lone star tick calls home, such as the southern, midwestern and mid-Atlantic US.

The CDC has previously singled out Arkansas, Kentucky, Missouri and Suffolk County, New York, as places where the lone star tick is known to reside.

Deer ticks, also known as black-legged ticks, are typically found in the eastern and midwestern US, while western black-legged ticks prefer the Pacific Coast.

What are the treatment options for alpha-gal syndrome?

There is no cure for AGS.

Symptoms, which vary from person to person, can be managed by avoiding red meat and other products containing alpha-gal.

Those with severe reactions may need to carry an epinephrine auto-injector and seek immediate medical attention.

How can alpha-gal syndrome be prevented?

The best way to prevent yourself from developing AGS is to take precautionary measures against tick bites.

• Use insect repellant.
• Avoid leaving trails while hiking.
• Wear long pants and sleeves.
• Check yourself for ticks when you get home.
• Shower immediately after being outdoors.