05/30/2026
Tick Prevention and Alpha Gal Syndrome
Spray, cover, check, repeat! Tiny bugs can cause BIG trouble. State Rep. Matthew Overcast didn't know much about tickborne diseases before his daughter, Lyla, and her siblings were diagnosed with alpha-gal syndrome (AGS), a food allergy to a sugar that most mammals, except for humans (and some others), have in their bodies. Lyla's whole world changed because of a lone star tick bite, and she is not alone. She's telling YOU 🫵 that you can prevent tick bites!
🛡 Use the right amount of bug spray, wear your pants tucked into your socks and check yourself for ticks any time you go outside.
Mammal products and byproducts can become dangerous for those with AGS - even products you may not think about can have trace amounts added during manufacturing, such as medications, white sugar and even bottled water! Some people with AGS are more sensitive than others, but most people have to avoid red meat and dairy.