Pennsylvania Tracks Red Meat Allergy Cases Linked to Tick Bites
Pennsylvania health officials have initiated efforts to track alpha-gal syndrome (AGS), a red meat allergy caused by bites from lone star ticks. The state, which leads the nation in reported Lyme disease cases, has identified approximately 600 AGS cases over the past two years through voluntary reporting. The syndrome, which can cause severe allergic reactions to red meat, is linked to a sugar molecule transmitted by tick bites. Lone star ticks, historically found in southern states, have expanded their range due to climate change, forest regrowth, and growing deer populations. Other tick species, such as the black-legged tick, may also contribute to AGS cases. Pennsylvania's Department of Health is encouraging testing labs to report positive AGS cases to establish a baseline for the condition's prevalence. The state aims to stay ahead of potential outbreaks as awareness and testing for AGS grow. 
