The connection between tick bites and red meat allergies hinges on alpha-galactoside, a compound found in red meat. A person who receives a tick bite might develop antibodies to the compound and become allergic to pork, lamb and beef. Tick-induced red meat allergies seem to be rare, but they can induce allergy-related breathing difficulties.
More about allergies:
- Many people have pet allergies, and some pets have allergic reactions to human dander.
- People with AB or B blood types might be more resistant to an alpha-galctoside allergy.
- Some people have developed a permanent allergy to various metals after wearing jewelry made from nickel.