Aggressive Meat Allergy-Causing Ticks Are Spreading Due To The Climate Crisis

The spread of lone star ticks, which can cause severe meat and dairy allergies in people they bite, is increasing in the US due to the climate crisis causing rapid warming. The record-breaking temperatures and heat warnings in June 2025 led to a spike in tick bite-related admissions to emergency rooms, with lone star ticks now being found in areas previously too cold for them, such as New York.

Experts warn that the lone star ticks, known for causing alpha-gal syndrome, are uniquely aggressive and may end up infecting millions of people with a life-threatening meat allergy. Other tick species, such as deer ticks and western blacklegged ticks, may also be contributing to the rise of alpha-gal cases. The symptoms of alpha-gal syndrome can vary and include rashes, hives, nausea, breathing difficulties, anaphylaxis, and heart attacks triggered by consuming red meat or dairy products.