05/15/2026
https://entomologytoday.org/2026/04/23/alpha-gal-syndrome-ticks-sugar-humans-lost-allergy-found-us/
Alpha-Gal Syndrome (AGS) is a rising concern, tick-borne condition that causes a serious, sometimes life-threatening allergy to red meat and dairy. A new review published in the Journal of Medical Entomology highlights just how widespread and under diagnosed AGS has become — and how many doctors still aren't aware of it.
What you should know:
The lone star tick — common across Arkansas — is the primary culprit in the U.S., but researchers believe other tick species may also be spreading AGS.
Symptoms — like hives, stomach pain, or anaphylaxis — can appear 2 to 6 hours after eating red meat, making the connection easy to miss.
The best prevention is avoiding tick bites altogether — tick checks after every outdoor activity, repellent on skin and clothing, and regular yard treatments.
A new review details the current state of scientific knowledge on alpha-gal syndrome, a severe allergy to red meat and other products containing alpha-gal sugars.