Missouri prevalence of antibodies causing red meat allergy is high, study says
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- Missouri had 26% of 300 samples positive for alpha‑gal IgE.
- The study collected 3,000 serum samples across 10 states from Nov 2024 to Apr 2025.
- Researchers warn a positive blood test alone can lead to overdiagnosis without symptoms.
A new study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reveals that Missouri is among one of the highest-prevalence states for alpha-gal antibodies, spread through certain tick bites.
The study was conducted to better understand the true prevalence and distribution of alpha-gal IgE, antibodies produced by the body to fight the presence of the sugar molecule alpha-gal. People can carry the antibodies while not having any symptoms.
Alpha-gal syndrome is a condition brought on by a tick bite, mostly from the lone star tick in the greater U.S. and in Missouri, that causes an allergy to all mammalian products. This includes red meat, dairy and all mammal byproducts, like bone char. The antibodies create sensitivity toward alpha-gal and the risk of developing the allergy.
The lone star tick is identifiable by one white dot on its brown back.
Across 10 states, 3,000 serum samples were collected between November 2024 and April 2025. Missouri and Arkansas had the highest prevalence of alpha-gal IgE. Of the 300 Missouri samples, 26% carried the antibodies. The average in the top five states — Arkansas, Kentucky, Missouri, Tennessee and Virginia — was 24%.
Symptoms of the allergic reactions at AGS can vary case by case and in severity, but can include hives, angioedema (deep-swelling of the lips, eyes, tongue, and throat), wheezing, gastrointestinal distress and even fatal anaphylaxis.
Diagnosis of AGS requires both the presence of clinically compatible symptoms and detection of alpha-gal IgE in the blood. People bit by lone star ticks can carry the antibodies and not develop AGS.
The study says that reliance on a positive blood test without careful consideration of clinical symptoms may lead to overdiagnosis of the condition, which is managed solely through food avoidance. The researchers recommend testing only after clinical symptoms present themselves or if there’s a clinical history of the condition in the highest-prevalence states.
