“Alpha-Gal Syndrome: The Tick-Borne ‘Red-Meat Allergy’ Affecting Hundreds of Thousands in the U.S.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has warned that a life-threatening food allergy, known as Alpha-Gal Syndrome (AGS), could be affecting hundreds of thousands of people in the U.S. Triggered by a bite from the Lone Star tick, AGS causes allergies to certain types of red meat and products made from mammals. After consuming these foods, people can experience serious allergy symptoms within a few hours. The CDC has seen an annual increase in suspected AGS cases since it became aware of the condition in 2008. Melissa Rudy reported

US CDC Warns About Rare Tick-Bite Meat Allergy

A rare and potentially deadly food allergy, triggered by tick bites, may be affecting hundreds of thousands of people across America, according to a warning issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in its Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.

Understanding Alpha-Gal Syndrome

Alpha-Gal Syndrome (AGS), otherwise known as the “red-meat allergy” or the “tick bite meat allergy,” is the condition in question. It originates from a bite from the Lone Star tick, which predominantly resides in the Eastern and Southeastern states. The tick’s saliva contains a sugar molecule called alpha-gal, which enters the body during the bite. This results in allergies to certain kinds of red meat, such as pork, beef, rabbit, lamb, or venison, and products derived from mammals, including cheese, milk, other dairy products, and gelatin.

Identifying AGS Symptoms and Diagnosis

Once individuals consume any food items containing the allergens, they may experience severe allergy symptoms within a few hours. The CDC first became aware of AGS in 2008, as stated by Dr. Johanna Salzer, a CDC epidemiologist and a senior author of the new report. “We have seen an annual increase in the numbers of suspected Alpha-Gal Syndrome cases between 2010 and 2022,” she told Fox News Digital.

Increasing Rates of Alpha-Gal Syndrome

Between 2017 and 2021, 30% of 300,000 tests conducted were positive for AGS, as found in a CDC study. The CDC has received over 110,000 suspected cases reports, but it’s believed that the actual number could be as high as 450,000 people. This discrepancy is due to many people not getting tested and numerous physicians being unaware of the condition.

Varying Reactions to Alpha-Gal Syndrome

The severity of AGS reactions can vary, as seen in the first documented case where a person had an anaphylactic reaction after consuming a steak dinner. “It’s inconsistent between individuals. Some people only have gastrointestinal symptoms and others have more severe anaphylactic reactions,” Salzer added.

Challenges in Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of AGS requires antibody testing and a clinical exam. However, patients often face a long path to diagnosis, with an average of seven years. At present, there is no treatment or cure for AGS, although physicians can help manage symptoms. Those with more severe reactions are given Epi-Pens in case of anaphylactic shock.

Preventing Alpha-Gal Syndrome

To prevent tick bites, it is recommended to apply EPA-approved insect repellent, wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks, and avoid grassy, brushy, and wooded areas. “When returning from an area that is known to have ticks, be sure to shower and do a very thorough check,” Salzer added.

Public Awareness and Education

With the new reports, the CDC intends to raise awareness among physicians and patients about an emerging public health issue with potentially severe health impacts. “It’s critical for clinicians to be aware of AGS so they can properly evaluate, diagnose and manage their patients and also educate them on tick-bite prevention to protect patients from developing this allergic condition,” said Dr. Ann Carpenter, epidemiologist and lead author of one of the papers released on Thursday.

.