Appalachia is known for many things, and one of those is their beautiful mountain ranges. People near and far will hike these mountains, finding enjoyment in the wilderness. However, there is a rising threat within Appalachia; the Lone Star Tick.
What is the Lone Star Tick?
The Lone Star Tick (Amblyomma americanum) is largely found within the midwest and southern region of the United States of America (USA), of which Appalachia is a large part of. The Lone Star Tick is very aggressive and frequently spreads diseases through biting. The most common aggressor is the female tick, identified by a single white spot (or “Lone Star”) on the back.
How Does Alpha-Gal Syndrome Spread?
While The Lone Star Tick is small, it is mighty. Within this tick’s saliva is a sugar molecule called Alpha-Gal (galactose-α-1,3-galactose), which transfers into a person’s blood upon being bit. The Alpha-Gal molecule is found in most mammals, but not humans. Due to this absence in humans, the human body’s immune system may identify the unfamiliar molecule as a threat. This can then cause serious allergic reactions when an individual eats red meat or products made by red meat animals, such as dairy. This life threatening allergy is known as Alpha-Gal Syndrome (AGS).
The Lone Star Tick has the highest reported correlation with AGS, but it is not the only tick associated with the disorder. The Blacklegged Tick and the Western Blacklegged Tick have also been reported to cause AGS. Not everyone who is bitten by one of these ticks will experience AGS, and at this time it is not known why some experience this reaction to Alpha-Gal and others do not. There is no exact figure for how many people within Appalachia experience Alpha-Gal Syndrome because it is not nationally notifiable, but Kentucky, Virginia, and Tennessee are recognized as ‘hot spots’ for these ticks.
What Can We Do?
While this may sound scary, there are things you can do to prevent a tick bite:
- Wear light colored clothing so it is easier to spot when ticks land on you.
- Wear long sleeved shirts, pants, and socks.
- Apply insect repellent.
- Shower within two hours after being in heavily wooded or grass areas.
- Perform routine checks for ticks.
Don’t let the presence of these ticks stop you from enjoying the beautiful landscape of Appalachia! Instead, remember to stay informed and communicate with your fellow community members, especially if you spot one!
Sources
https://www.cdc.gov/alpha-gal-syndrome/about/index.html
https://www.cdc.gov/ticks/pdfs/Tick_surveillance-P.pdf
https://www.cdc.gov/alpha-gal-syndrome/communication-resources/index.html