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Allergist warns dangerous Lone Star tick is spreading which can make you allergic to red meat
An allergist on TikTok warns that a dangerous tick species is spreading across the United States that can make you allergic to red meat.
People suffering from allergies always need to be cautious, but research shows that some must now be extra careful and avoid picking up an allergy to one vital food from a specific type of tick. The Lone Star tick can cause a meat allergy called alpha-gal syndrome and the allergist revealed that the species is making its way across the United States.
Tick spreading which can cause red meat allergy
Dr. Rubin, MD is a pediatric allergist and clinical immunologist who recently shared a public service announcement via TikTok, spreading awareness about the Lone Star tick.
A recently published study shows the general distribution of a type of tick called Amblyomma americanum, also known as the Lone Star Tick, which is primarily responsible for causing a type of meat allergy called alpha-gal allergy.
Alpha-gal allergy is shorthand for the sugar molecule galactose, alpha 13. Mayo Clinic explains that alpha-gal syndrome is a type of food allergy. It makes people allergic to red meat such as beef, pork or lamb, and other products made from mammals.
This sugar molecule is found in mammalian meat, except for in humans and certain primates. When the Lone Star tick bites humans, it causes an immune response that could lead to a long-term meat allergy.
Any type of meat product that also includes gelatin could cause severe, potentially life-threatening allergic health reactions. The board-certified allergist states that possible reactions are not always consistent – they could be delayed by 4 to 6 hours and can make people very sick.
In the viral TikTok, Dr. Rubin shows a map with a predictive model showing that the Lone Star ticks have been moving further north likely because the temperatures have been steadily rising over the last several years.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that close to half a million people in the United States are living with alpha-gal syndrome.
According to the Washington Post, Lone Star ticks used to be found mostly in the Southeastern United States, but they are becoming more common in Northern states, and even parts of Canada.
How to prevent Lone Star tick bites
Dr. Rubin emphasizes the importance of reducing the chances of getting bitten by a tick if you are outside in the northern parts of the United States during the summer months.
The Lone Star Tick is distinguished by a white dot or “lone star” on her back, the CDC reveals.
Ticks are typically found in grassy areas or forests, so you should cover yourself with clothing and wear bug spray. Make sure you always take a shower after being outside and do a thorough tick check. If you find any ticks you should remove them as soon as possible.
The University of Rhode Island reports that adult Lone Star ticks are active April-late August and can be found questing for larger animals, such as dogs, coyotes, deer, cattle, and humans on tall grass in shade or at the tips of low-lying branches and twigs.
Dr. Rubin’s educational TikTok has reached over one million views and the comment section is filled with further advice regarding ways to avoid the ticks. One user suggested people in the affected areas should wear long pants when hiking, and tuck your pants into your socks.
Doctor Zachary Rubin, MD is a double board-certified pediatrician specializing in allergy treatment and immunology.
