Alpha-gal syndrome (AGS) (also called alpha-gal allergy, red meat allergy, or tick bite meat allergy) is a serious, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction to alpha-gal, which is a sugar molecule found in many mammals, but not in people. Alpha-gal is carried in the saliva of the lone star tick and growing evidence suggests that AGS in the United States may be triggered by the bite of Amblyomma americanum (lone star tick) and perhaps Ixodes scapularis (black-legged tick). Common symptoms of AGS include hives or itching; abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea; cough, shortness of breath, or wheezing; and swelling of the lips, throat, tongue, or eyelids. Anaphylaxis (a potentially life-threatening reaction involving multiple organ systems) may need urgent medical care. AGS should be treated and managed under the care of an allergist or other healthcare provider. Prevention of tick bites is important in preventing tickborne disease and may reduce your chances of developing AGS. While outdoors, avoid wooded areas with dense shrubs and leaf litter, wear protective clothing and use EPA-registered insect repellent. After coming inside, check clothing for ticks, shower, perform a tick check and remove attached ticks immediately.
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