Lone Star Tick In Missouri
Know The Dangers
The Lone Star Tick: A Growing Threat in the St. Louis Area
The Lone Star Tick (Amblyomma americanum) has become one of the fastest-growing tick populations in Missouri and throughout the St. Louis region. Once primarily found in southern states, these aggressive ticks are now abundant across Missouri and are increasingly being encountered in backyards, parks, wooded areas, and residential neighborhoods. Missouri health officials identify the Lone Star Tick as one of the most common ticks found throughout the state.
Alpha-Gal Syndrome (AGS): The Life-Changing Allergy Linked to Tick Bites
One of the most concerning health risks associated with the Lone Star Tick is Alpha-Gal Syndrome (AGS), a potentially life-altering allergy that can develop after a tick bite. When a Lone Star Tick feeds, it can introduce a sugar molecule called alpha-gal into the bloodstream. In some individuals, this triggers an immune response that causes allergic reactions when consuming red meat, pork, venison, dairy products, and other mammal-derived products.
Symptoms of AGS may include:
- Hives and skin rashes
- Severe stomach pain and digestive issues
- Nausea and vomiting
- Shortness of breath
- Swelling of the face or throat
- Potentially life-threatening anaphylaxis
Unlike many food allergies, symptoms often occur several hours after eating, making AGS difficult to recognize and diagnose.
LONE STAR TICKS IN MISSOURI
Alpha-Gal Syndrome (AGS): A Life-Changing Tick-Borne Condition
One of the most serious concerns associated with the Lone Star Tick is Alpha-Gal Syndrome (AGS), an allergy that can develop after a tick bite. AGS can cause an allergic reaction to red meat and other mammal-derived products. For some individuals, symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe, life-threatening allergic reactions.
WEST NILE VIRUS IN MISSOURI
WEST NILE VIRUS IN MISSOURI
West Nile Virus remains the most significant mosquito-borne disease threat in Missouri. State health officials reported elevated West Nile Virus activity in 2025, including multiple hospitalizations and deaths across Missouri, with cases reported in the St. Louis region and throughout the state. The virus is spread when infected mosquitoes bite humans after feeding on infected birds.