Alpha-gal Syndrome is caused by a bite from a lone star tick. The bite can induce an immune response which triggers allergies to red meat. In some people the allergy can be quite severe.

Check out this Tick Guide from NC State University

Check out this great article from NC State University about Alpha-gal Syndrome.

Protect yourself from ticks People in neighborhoods with high deer populations should take precautions against ticks and tick bites when outdoors. Whether we are talking about private yards or municipal areas, insecticidal perimeter sprays of the woods surrounding parks and yards can be very effective. Along with perimeter sprays, keeping grass areas mowed, creating mulch borders between woodlands and lawns, pruning trees and shrubs so that limbs do not touch people and keeping wildlife at a distance by repellents, scare tactics and fencing are all non-pesticidal tactics to reduce ticks. This is called using an integrated approach to pest management, using all tactics available including pesticides.

Individuals should avoid areas of high tick populations. When visiting these areas, use tick repellents. Finally, always check yourself and your children for ticks

Learn more about managing ticks in the landscape.