Galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose (alpha-gal) is a carbohydrate found in the cells of many mammals that humans eat, such as cows, sheep, and pigs. Poultry that has been injected with natural flavoring containing beef or other mammal cells may also have alpha-gal. As a result of autoimmune responses, some people become allergic to alpha-gal. People with this allergy may experience mild discomfort after eating meat, or they may have a dangerous reaction that leaves them unable to breathe. The spectrum of reactions to alpha-gal varies. Most instances of this allergy are triggered by tick bites.

However, symptoms of alpha-gal vary from case to case. The severity of these symptoms also varies from person to person and can become more severe as time goes on. Drinking alcohol or exercising after you eat may slow down the reaction time. Sometimes the symptoms of a reaction from an alpha-gal allergy can even lead to death.

The best way to prevent alpha-gal syndrome is to:

• Avoid long grass, brush, and wooded places where ticks are plentiful.
• Wear pants and long sleeves when walking in the woods.
• Put the chemical permethrin on your clothing and gear.
• Use tick repellents.

Once you come back indoors:

• Check your clothing for ticks.
• Shower and do a tick check on your naked body.
• If you see a tick on your clothing or skin, remove it immediately with tweezers, being careful not to break it.

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