What to know about alpha-gal syndrome, the life-threatening meat allergy caused by tick bites

Article excerpt

Ticks don't just carry Lyme disease, they can trigger alpha-gal syndrome, a potentially fatal allergy to meat that develops after a tick bite. Health officials are racing to raise awareness of this lesser-known condition, which has been climbing in prevalence. The allergy, caused by the Lone Star tick's saliva, can make even a hamburger dangerous for affected people. Unlike typical food allergies, alpha-gal syndrome can develop weeks after infection and may require patients to permanently avoid red meat, pork, and dairy.