Lone Star Ticks & Alpha-Gal Syndrome (AGS)

Due to a wet spring with bouts of hot weather, the population of nymphal deer ticks (Ixodes scapularis) has exploded this year. Another species, lone star ticks (Amblyomma americanum), have also been growing in number and are found in a very large geographic area. Lone star ticks are an aggressive and active species. They are associated with several pathogens, including the "allergy to red meat."

This condition is real but not limited to red meat. In the scientific community, it is more accurately known as alpha-gal syndrome, or AGS. AGS describes an allergy to the alpha-gal carbohydrate (or sugar molecule). Our bodies do not produce alpha-gal, and naturally produce alpha-gal antibodies. One of these antibodies, IgE, causes a sensitivity to many products, including "red meat" and many other products, such as bacon, milk, ice cream, cheese, gummy candies, and even certain types of medical products.

Right now in the United States, AGS is correlated with lone star tick bites. Frequent bites or bites from many ticks are associated with the development of AGS, but the cause is unknown. It could be caused by the alpha-gal carbohydrate, which has been found in tick saliva. Ticks also produce their own molecules that are structurally very similar to the carbohydrate.

As we head into the warmer summer months, keep up your protection against ticks. The lone star tick can often be found in places where you rarely find deer ticks, such as open fields, as it tends to be more tolerant of dry habitats.

Focus on personal protection methods:

•   Wear an EPA-registered repellent

•   Protect fabrics, clothing, and shoes with permethrin

•   Include a daily tick check in your schedule

•   Call Peerless!