First Death Linked to Alpha-Gal Syndrome, a Tick-Induced Meat Allergy, Reported in US
MINNESOTA – A Minnesota man’s death in 2023 has been officially linked to Alpha-Gal syndrome (AGS), marking the first confirmed fatality caused by the tick-borne illness in the United States. The Centers for Disease control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed the case,highlighting a growing public health concern as AGS diagnoses continue to rise across the Southeast and Midwest.
Alpha-Gal syndrome is triggered by the bite of the Lone Star tick, which carries a sugar molecule called alpha-gal. This molecule can cause an allergic reaction to red meat – beef, pork, lamb, and venison – and products derived from mammals, such as gelatin, dairy, and even some medications. While previously understood to cause severe allergic reactions, the case underscores the potentially fatal consequences of AGS, notably if diagnosis is delayed or access to epinephrine is limited.
The individual,a 71-year-old man,experienced AGS symptoms after a Lone Star tick bite. He received a delayed diagnosis and ultimately died from cardiac arrest following anaphylaxis after consuming pork. The CDC’s inquiry, detailed in a recent Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, revealed a complex medical history but ultimately determined AGS as the cause of death.
“This case represents the first known death directly attributed to AGS in the US, and it underscores the critical need for increased awareness among both the public and healthcare professionals,” stated Dr. Jeanette Stehr-Green, an epidemiologist with the Minnesota Department of Health and lead author of the report. “Early recognition of symptoms and prompt access to epinephrine are vital for managing severe reactions.”
The CDC reports a meaningful increase in AGS cases in recent years, with over 6,000 confirmed cases reported as of December 2023, though experts believe the actual number is significantly higher due to underreporting and diagnostic challenges. The Lone Star tick’s geographic range is expanding, increasing the risk of AGS in previously unaffected areas.
Symptoms of AGS typically appear 3-8 hours after consuming red meat and can include hives, itching, swelling, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and a drop in blood pressure. Individuals suspecting they may have AGS should consult a healthcare provider for testing and guidance. Prevention efforts focus on tick bite prevention, including using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and performing thorough tick checks after spending time outdoors.