Meet the lone star tick: the primary U.S. source of alpha-gal syndrome, which is a life-threatening meat allergy that’s on the rise

Alpha-gal syndrome, a life-threatening meat allergy linked to lone star tick bites, is on the rise in the U.S. The condition triggers allergic reactions to red meat and dairy, with symptoms including hives and diarrhea. Recent approval of the first treatment offers new hope, but the expanding habitat of lone star ticks contributes to increased cases.