Hundreds of thousands of Americans may be infected with a tick-borne illness that causes an allergy to meat, according to the Centers for Disease Control Prevention. Alpha-Gal Syndrome, or AGS, is caused by the bite of a lone star tick, which can be identified by a white dot on its back. The saliva of the tick will cause those who have been infected to have a reaction to red meat, including pork and lamb. They may also have reactions to gelatin or dairy products. Symptoms of the infection may include stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea, itchy skin, swelling of lips, face or throat, wheezing or shortness of breath.
Most cases of AGS have been reported across 13 states in the eastern half of the U. S. from Kansas to Delaware. The CDC said more than 110,000 cases have been reported. However, they said more than 450,000 people may not know they are infected. To reduce the risk of contracting a tick-borne disease, wear long pants and long sleeves when in wooded areas. Take a shower after being in areas where ticks may be, and apply an EPA approved repellant when camping or enjoying the outdoors.
We’ll hear more about Alpha Gal Syndrome soon from KOFO’s Audrey Lintner, who has suffered with the illness for several years.
