Tick bite prevention week: understanding alpha-gal allergy 

This year, for Tick Prevention Week (25-31 March), we are shining a spotlight on alpha-gal allergy, an unusual type of food allergy that can start with a tick bite. 

What is alpha-gal allergy?  

Alpha-gal allergy is an allergic reaction to a sugar molecule (carbohydrate) called alpha-gal, which is present in the muscle tissue of mammals. Although this allergy is rare in the UK, it can sometimes cause a serious allergic response.  

What causes alpha-gal allergy? 

Alpha-gal allergy can develop after a tick bite. If the tick has previously fed on an animal carrying alpha-gal in its system, it picks up the sugar and carries it in its saliva. When the tick then bites a person, it transfers alpha-gal into their bloodstream. 

When alpha-gal enters your bloodstream, the immune system can respond and make antibodies that mark the alpha-gal sugar as ‘foreign’.  

The next time you eat meat from mammals such as lamb, beef or pork (but not poultry such as chicken or turkey), the body’s immune system wrongly identifies the alpha-gal in the meat as a threat. When this happens, the body releases chemicals, such as histamine, in response. It is the release of these chemicals that causes allergic symptoms.  

What are the symptoms?  

The symptoms of alpha-gal allergy are usually delayed, appearing three to eight hours after eating. This is unlike most other food allergies where symptoms usually come on within minutes. Most other food allergies are caused by proteins but alpha-gal is a carbohydrate, which might be why there is a delay in the allergic response.  

Mild reactions may include hives, mouth tingling, swelling of the lips, face or eyes, and stomach discomfort. In rare cases, more severe symptoms can affect your airways (swelling, difficulty swallowing), breathing (wheezing, noisy breathing), and circulation (dizziness, confusion, or fainting). For more detailed information, please refer to our alpha-gal allergy factsheet.  

How to prevent tick bites 

The best way to reduce the risk of developing alpha-gal allergy is to avoid tick bites. When spending time outdoors, particularly in grassy or wooded areas, take the following precautions: 

• Cover your skin by wearing long sleeves and tucking your trousers into your socks. 

• Use insect repellent on your clothes and skin—products containing DEET are most effective. 

• Stay on clear paths whenever possible to reduce contact with tall grass and undergrowth. 

• Wear light-coloured clothing so ticks are easier to spot and remove. 

For further information on prevention and guidance on what to do if bitten, visit the NHS website. 

Personal experiences 

Simon’s story 

Simon, a landscape manager from Scotland, was diagnosed with alpha-gal allergy in 2022 after months of unexplained symptoms. 

“My journey began back in summer of 2021 when I started noticing hives that I couldn’t explain. Over 8 months the episodes got progressively worse often resulting in vomiting. Although I didn’t know it at the time, the frequency of these reactions was consistent with eating meat.” 

Following allergy testing, Simon received his diagnosis and had to make significant changes to his lifestyle. 

Read the full story here: https://www.anaphylaxis.org.uk/patients/media-centre/case-studies/alpha-gal-allergy-simons-experience/ 

Chris’s story 

Chris faced a series of serious reactions after eating red meat but initially struggled to get answers. 

Despite collapsing and experiencing life-threatening symptoms, Chris’s concerns were initially dismissed by healthcare professionals. He later confirmed he had alpha-gal allergy through private testing. 

Now an advocate for improved awareness, Chris campaigns for better education about the allergy and clearer food labelling in the UK. 

“Anyone can be bitten by a tick and be unlucky enough to contract this allergy, so I want to raise awareness of the condition and the devastating impact it can have on people’s lives.” 

Read the full story here: https://www.anaphylaxis.org.uk/alpha-gal-allergy-how-tick-bites-changed-my-life/ 

Living with alpha-gal allergy 

Adjusting to life with alpha-gal allergy can be challenging at first, but with the right precautions, many people manage it successfully and continue to live active and healthy lives. 

The key to managing alpha-gal allergy is to avoid mammalian meat (such as beef, pork, lamb, and venison) and to carefully read ingredient labels on packaged foods, as alpha-gal can be found in some processed products, like gelatin and certain medications. 

Additionally ensure you carry your two adrenaline auto-injectors (AAIs) at all times, if prescribed by your doctor. It can be helpful to educate family members, friends, and colleagues about your condition and how to use the AAIs if needed. 

As research and awareness of alpha-gal allergy continue to grow, staying informed about the latest information is vital. With the proper precautions, individuals with alpha-gal allergy can effectively manage their condition and significantly reduce the risk of a serious allergic reaction. 

For more information read our Alpha-Gal Allergy Factsheet.