High Prevalence of Alpha-Gal Antibodies Found in Tick-Heavy States, CDC Reports
A CDC report reveals that nearly one in four adults in five states with high tick populations carry antibodies to alpha-gal, a sugar linked to a meat allergy known as alpha-gal syndrome. The states include Arkansas, Kentucky, Missouri, Tennessee, and Virginia. Despite the high seroprevalence, only a small fraction of those with antibodies develop the syndrome. The study highlights the risk of overdiagnosis if testing is conducted without symptoms, as many people with antibodies do not experience allergic reactions. 
