A video has gone viral showing a man claiming to have fallen victim to the Alpha-gal syndrome, a tick-borne meat allergy that triggers painful allergic reactions to animal products.
The condition, which affects around 450,000 Americans, is caused by an allergy to the Alpha-gal molecule found in most mammals, but not humans.
According to the Centre for Disease Control (CDC), Alpha-gal syndrome usually occurs when a tick bites and transfers its saliva into the person's blood, triggering an allergic reaction.
The CDC notes that the 'best' way to protect oneself from AGS is to prevent tick bites, which can be done by treating gear and clothing with products containing 0.5% permethrin, avoiding contact with ticks, and using EPA-registered insect repellents.
One person who has been affected by Alpha-gal syndrome shared their experience, saying it is 'super life-altering' and has forced them to change their diet and lifestyle.
