The Alpha-gal Syndrome Epidemic Sweeping the Nation: Here’s Everything You Need to Know About Meat Allergy Symptoms and Foods that Trigger Alpha-gal Reactions

Researchers have observed a concerning increase in the prevalence of a rare meat allergy caused by tick bites, known as alpha-gal syndrome, among Americans.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently released new data indicating a steep rise in reported cases of this condition.

How Lone Star Tick Bites Are Turning People Allergic to Meat

Alpha-gal syndrome triggers potentially life-threatening reactions to various types of meat and animal products. Scientists in the United States have traced this allergy to the saliva of the lone star tick, recognizable by the white spot on its back.

These ticks are primarily found in the southern and eastern regions of the country, but their habitat has been expanding due to climate change.

Foods that can trigger Alpha-gal reactions?

Individuals who suffer from alpha-gal syndrome may experience adverse reactions when consuming meat and animal products derived from mammals, such as pork, beef, rabbit, lamb, venison, gelatine, milk, dairy products, and certain pharmaceuticals.

What are the symptoms of Alpha-gal syndrome?

Symptoms of this little-understood syndrome include stomach cramps, diarrhea, hives, and shortness of breath, which could lead to potentially fatal anaphylaxis.

It is important to note that reactions to alpha-gal syndrome can vary from person to person, ranging from mild to severe or life-threatening.

In severe cases, immediate medical attention is required, as anaphylaxis involves multiple organ systems and can be life-threatening.

However, it is not necessary that every alpha-gal exposure will lead to an allergic reaction, making the diagnosis challenging. Due to the slow digestion of meat in the body, symptoms may not always be apparent.

What is the CDC’s latest report on Alpha-gal cases?

According to the CDC’s findings, over 110,000 cases of alpha-gal syndrome have been identified since 2010, with an annual increase of approximately 15,000 cases between 2017 and 2021.

Moreover, difficulties with diagnosis have led the CDC to suggest that up to 450,000 Americans may have developed meat allergies as a result of alpha-gal.

The lack of awareness about alpha-gal syndrome is also concerning. A survey conducted among 1,500 doctors and healthcare workers revealed that 42% of them had never even heard of the syndrome.

Furthermore, about one-third of the respondents expressed low confidence in their ability to identify the disease, with only 5% feeling very confident in doing so.

Is Alpha-gal syndrome more common in the US?

Alpha-gal syndrome was serendipitously discovered in 2008 during the testing of a cancer treatment drug when unexpected results emerged.

This type of meat allergy is not unique to the US. In the Sydney region of Australia, the Ixodes holocyclus, also known as the paralysis tick, has been known to cause similar meat allergies.

How can one prevent Lone star tick bites?

To protect against tick-borne alpha-gal syndrome and other tick-related illnesses, experts advise people to cover up when outdoors and regularly check their bodies for tick bites, especially during the warmer months.

The CDC recommends using insect repellents containing DEET and pre-treating clothing with permethrin when spending time outdoors.

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