Kentucky Experts Offering Webinar & In-Person Events to Combat Tick-Borne Allergy That’s on the Rise

The Ticks Are Coming From Inside the House

I’ve picked ticks off my back twice in the past week. I’m pretty sure my dog is picking them up in the yard and bringing them inside. Since he sleeps in bed with me, they hop off him and make their way toward my delicious self.

So far, no adverse effects, but with tick-borne illnesses on the rise, I’m taking extra steps to make sure he leaves the ticks outside where they belong.

What Is Alpha-Gal Syndrome?

One illness that’s becoming more common in the U.S. is Alpha-Gal Syndrome. It won’t necessarily make you sick in the traditional sense, but the main symptom really sucks.

When an infected Lone Star tick bites you, it can transmit a sugar molecule called alpha-gal into your body. Some people’s immune systems overreact, and it causes an allergy to red meat, dairy, and even mammal-derived ingredients like gelatin.

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No Steak. No Cheese. No Jell-O.

Yep, no more steak. No more cheese. No more Jell-O. It’s life-changing, and unfortunately, the only treatment is to avoid anything that comes from mammals. My friend Kelly has been cursed with Alpha-Gal syndrome and she has posted about how hard it is to go out to eat. Not only is she looking at ingredients that don't include any mammal products but also has to be careful that the food she eats hasn't come into contact with cooking surfaces where mammal products were cooked previously.

Read More: Here's What To Do If You Find a Tick Nest In Your Yard

Where It’s Happening

According to the Mayo Clinic, most Alpha-Gal cases have been reported in the South, East, and Central states, but that’s changing. Deer are helping spread these ticks into new areas, which means more people across the country are now dealing with the syndrome. The syndrome is spreading both state-side and even around the world.

Free Webinar from UK on May 29

Because of the growing number of people affected, the University of Kentucky Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment will host a free statewide webinar on May 29. Details can be found here. 

Highlights for the Free Alpha-Gal Webinar Include:

• Tick bite prevention

• Living with Alpha-Gal Syndrome

• Personal perspectives

• Interactive Q&A with speakers

Heather Norman-Burgdolf, associate extension professor in the Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition said, “Our goal is to provide practical information and support to individuals living with or concerned about red meat allergy. With Alpha-Gal Syndrome on the rise, it’s important to share evidence-based resources on tick bite prevention and strategies for a healthier, safer lifestyle.”

Read More: Invasive Tick Has Been Spotted in Illinois 

University of Kentucky 2025 Alpha-Gal Syndrome Webinar Info

The webinar begins at 7 p.m. ET and is free of charge and open to the public. To register, visit ukfcs.net/AgS. Once registered, participants will receive Zoom details via email. The session will be recorded and made available afterward on the Extension’s primary social media channels so those who cannot attend live can watch at their convenience.

University of Kentucky 2025 Alpha-Gal Syndrome In-Person Events

The syndrome is spreading so quickly, that UK is also offering in-person watch sessions at county offices where participants can also sample some Alpha-Gal safe recipes, receive additional information and resources, and meet others who are going through the same thing. Space is limited for many of these local events, so interested participants should contact their county office directly to learn more or reserve a spot.