Beware of Tick Bites: 90,000 People in the U.S. Test Positive

In the United States, the alpha‑gal syndrome, especially linked to tick bites, is among the emerging allergic conditions that health experts have highlighted. According to the CDC, the syndrome is predominantly associated with lone star ticks and can trigger severe allergic reactions to products derived from mammals, especially red meat.

90,000 Positive Tests Between 2017-2022

In a study published by the CDC, 357,119 tests aimed at detecting alpha‑gal antibodies were examined in the United States between January 1, 2017 and December 31, 2022. These tests involved 295,400 individuals, of whom 90,018 returned positive results. The number of people testing positive rose from 13,371 in 2017 to 18,885 in 2021.

Total Suspected Cases Exceeded 110,000

According to the CDC’s assessment alongside prior data, a total of 110,229 suspected alpha‑gal syndrome cases were documented in the United States from 2010 to 2022. However, because the syndrome is not a nationally reportable disease, the true case count could not be determined.

Actual Number Could Reach 450,000

CDC warns that the true number of cases could be much higher due to people who have not been tested or diagnosed correctly. According to the agency’s estimate, between 96,000 and 450,000 people in the United States may have been affected by alpha‑gal syndrome since 2010.

Symptoms Emerge After Red Meat Consumption

In alpha‑gal syndrome, the immune system can develop an IgE‑mediated response to the sugar molecule galactose‑alpha‑1,3‑galactose, which is found in the tissues of most mammals. This molecule is present in red meats such as beef, pork, lamb, and venison, as well as in some animal products.

Symptoms Can Begin Hours Later

The syndrome’s symptoms can vary from person to person. The CDC notes that reactions such as hives, swelling, and gastrointestinal problems may occur, and in severe cases anaphylaxis that can threaten life may arise. Unlike some other food allergies, the fact that reactions can develop several hours after exposure can make diagnosis more difficult.

Spreading from the South to Other Regions of the United States

Alfa-gal syndrome cases are concentrating in the southeastern United States, where the star tick is common. However, a CDC study has shown that suspected cases are also appearing outside the known habitats of this tick. Researchers point out that the geographic expansion of tick populations could affect future case numbers.

Blood tests are used in diagnosis.

According to the CDC, in evaluating alfa-gal syndrome, a blood test that measures alfa-gal–specific IgE antibodies can be used in addition to the patient's history and physical examination. The agency says that awareness among health workers about diagnosing and managing the disease needs to be increased.

There is no definitive cure yet.

The CDC reports that there is currently no definitive or curative treatment for alfa-gal syndrome. Patients are advised to determine which products trigger reactions with health professionals and to avoid exposure accordingly. In particular, red meat, certain dairy products, and some items derived from mammals can provoke reactions.