Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Does a lone star tick bite always cause alpha-gal syndrome?
A: No, not at all. While the lone star tick is the primary cause of AGS in the U.S., only a fraction of people bitten will develop the allergy. The risk increases with repeated bites.
Q: How soon after a bite would I get sick from a disease like ehrlichiosis?
A: Symptoms of tick-borne illnesses typically begin within 1-2 weeks after the bite.
Q: Can I get alpha-gal syndrome from eating meat without a tick bite?
A: The syndrome is almost exclusively associated with the bite of a lone star tick (and possibly other ticks) that sensitizes the immune system. It is not transmitted through food alone.
Q: Should I get antibiotics immediately after a bite?
A: Not necessarily. The CDC does not recommend prophylactic antibiotics for most tick bites. Doctors may consider a single dose of doxycycline in specific, high-risk cases (e.g., a prolonged attachment from a deer tick in an area with a high incidence of Lyme disease). This decision should be made by a healthcare professional.
