Overview

• Alpha-gal syndrome occurs when certain tick bites sensitize the immune system to the sugar molecule galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose found in mammalian meat and dairy
• The CDC estimates that up to 450,000 people in the United States have developed the condition since its discovery in 2010
• Serbia’s first confirmed case this summer highlights the syndrome’s spread beyond North America as tick populations expand
• Delayed symptom onset—typically two to six hours after eating—and limited clinician awareness often lead to misdiagnosis and prolonged patient suffering
• With no cure available, patients must strictly avoid red meat, dairy and further tick exposure while researchers investigate why only some individuals become sensitized