When most people in New Jersey think of tick-borne illnesses, Lyme disease is usually the first thing that comes to mind. But there’s another hidden risk on the rise—the red meat allergy, or alpha-gal syndrome, caused by the bite of the lone star tick. At HMGS Dermatology, we care about keeping you and your family informed about emerging health risks affecting your skin and overall wellness.
What Is Red Meat Allergy (Alpha-gal Syndrome)?
Red meat allergy is a unique allergic reaction triggered by a sugar molecule called alpha-gal, which the lone star tick injects into your body during a bite. This syndrome is quite different from other food allergies—symptoms can appear up to 3-6 hours after eating red meat such as beef, pork, or lamb. In some cases, even products derived from mammals can spark a reaction.
- Tick-borne: Caused by the bite of the lone star tick—now increasingly common in New Jersey.
- Symptoms: Include itchy rashes, hives, swelling, stomach pain, and, in rare cases, severe allergic reactions known as anaphylaxis.
- Delayed onset: Unlike most food allergies, reactions occur hours after consumption, making it trickier to pinpoint the cause.
What Is STARI?
The lone star tick isn’t just responsible for alpha-gal syndrome—it can also cause a rash called STARI (Southern Tick-Associated Rash Illness). This rash is circular or expanding and looks similar to the hallmark “bull’s-eye” rash from Lyme disease. While STARI is usually milder than Lyme disease, it’s still important to seek medical attention if you notice a suspicious rash after a tick bite.
Other Tick-Borne Illnesses in New Jersey
Several types of ticks thrive in New Jersey, each carrying unique risks. Here’s a quick overview of the most common tick-borne illnesses:
- Lyme Disease: Blacklegged tick; look for target-shaped rash, fever, joint pain.
- Ehrlichiosis: Lone star tick; causes fever, muscle aches, sometimes a rash.
- Babesiosis: Blacklegged tick; may bring on fevers, chills, and fatigue.
- STARI: Lone star tick; produces a bull’s-eye rash, sometimes fatigue.
- Alpha-gal Syndrome: Lone star tick; results in rash, hives, or allergic reaction after eating red meat.
Why Dermatology Is Essential for Tick-Borne Illnesses
Skin changes—such as unusual rashes, hives, or swelling—are often the very first signs of tick-borne diseases like alpha-gal syndrome. A dermatologist can help differentiate between tick-borne allergic reactions and other skin problems. At HMGS Dermatology, our experienced team is skilled in diagnosing and treating skin conditions caused by tick exposures.
How to Protect Yourself and Your Family
- Wear insect repellent and long sleeves when spending time in grassy, bushy, or wooded areas.
- Do a thorough tick check of your skin after outdoor activities, especially for children and pets.
- Shower soon after being outdoors to help wash away unattached ticks.
- Contact a dermatologist promptly if you notice unusual rashes, hives, or swelling after spending time outside—or hours after eating red meat.
HMGS Dermatology is ready to help you with comprehensive skin care, and our pediatric dermatology specialists are here for our younger patients. If you have concerns about a rash or possible tick bite reaction, don’t hesitate to contact us.
Stay Safe—Your Skin Health Matters!
If you or a loved one experiences unexplained rashes or allergic reactions after being outdoors or eating red meat, schedule a consultation with our dermatology experts. Early diagnosis makes a big difference in effective treatment and peace of mind.
Protect your skin and your well-being this tick season—book an appointment with HMGS Dermatology today.
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Board Certified Dermatologists and Partners
Dr. Warren Heymann, Dr. Steven Manders, Dr. Justin Green, Dr. Lacy Sommer, Dr. Patrick McMahon, and Dr. Camille Introcaso, MD
The partners of HMGS Dermatology represent some of the most highly trained, accomplished, and respected dermatologists in the region, bringing together decades of expertise across general, pediatric, surgical, and academic dermatology. With education and training from some of the nation’s top institutions—including the University of Pennsylvania, UCSF, Temple, and Rutgers—they are board-certified in multiple subspecialties such as dermatology, pediatric dermatology, and dermatopathology. Many serve as professors and program directors at Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, shaping the future of dermatology through teaching, research, and leadership. Collectively, they have held prestigious roles such as division heads, board directors, and presidents of dermatologic societies, while earning recognition through numerous “Top Doctor” awards and lifetime achievement honors. Whether advancing innovation in pediatric care, cutaneous oncology, or medical education, the HMGS partners are united by their commitment to excellence and providing the highest standard of compassionate, expert skin care to their patients.