Living with Alpha Gal Syndrome Webinar Event

Describe the situation

While still considered “rare” relative to other medical issues in the state, Kentucky is one of the states with the most cases of alpha-gal syndrome in the US, according to the CDC, with some Kentucky counties presenting the highest cases per capita in the country. This condition is developed in some people after a bit from a lone star tick. There is no known treatment for alpha-gal syndrome. Instead, lifestyle changes can be made that help manage and reduce the symptoms. This includes removing all foods from mammalian sources (e.g., beef, pork) as well as ingredients and byproducts derived from mammalian sources. This lifestyle change can seem overwhelming and daunting for those newly diagnosed. Further, tick bite prevention is key in preventing future cases and worsening symptoms in Kentuckians.

Describe the Outreach or Educational Program Response

To educate Extension clientele about alpha gal syndrome, the Harrison County Extension Office hosted an in-person watch party for the Living with Alpha Gal-Syndrome statewide webinar on May 29, 2025. This webinar focused on basic information about alpha gal syndrome, symptoms, diagnosis, nutrition and lifestyle management, as well as tick bite prevention. This webinar was hosted at the state level in response to the growing number of questions and concerns received across Kentucky from growers, producers, farmers, and other clientele. Extension Agents in Harrison County (ANR, Horticulture, and FCS programs) hosted the watch party and advertised in monthly newsletters and on social media platforms. Advertisements also included a link for participants to sign up to watch on their own, rather than attending the watch party. Seven people participated in the in-class watch party at the Harrison County Extension Office.

 Each participant that attended the watch party received a folder with information as well as a tick collection kit. The contents of the folder and kit are as follows:

1. University of Kentucky ENTFact-618 publication – “Ticks and Disease in Kentucky”
2. University of Kentucky ENTFact-648 publication – “The Lone Star Tick in Kentucky”
3. University of Kentucky ENTFact-656 publication – “Life with Alpha-Gal Red Meat Allergy”
4. University of Kentucky FCS3-646 publication – “Food Allergens Alpha-Gal”
5. Alpha-Gal Safe Recipes - derived from University of Kentucky Plant.Eat.Move. program
6. Tick remover pack which includes three tick remover tools and a tick identification card.
7. Magnifying glass
8. Insect vial to collect specimen
9. Alcohol pads to use to clean bite area

Provide the Number and Description(s) of Participants/Target Audience

At the conclusion of the webinar 7 people completed a post-evaluation. Of those surveyed, 72% indicated they could describe alpha-gal syndrome and the common cause and 72% stated they had a better understanding of which foods, ingredients, and products may trigger symptoms.  72% reported they could identify ways to prevent tick bites, while 72% were more aware of strategies to manage daily life with alpha-gal syndrome. Further, 86% acknowledged they plan to use an identified method for tick bite prevention in the future.

Provide a Statement of Outcomes or Program Impact

Of those that attended the watch party, 100% of those surveyed indicated they agreed or strongly agreed that this program was educational, the information was practical, and they would like to see additional programming related to these topics.

The program was very well received and those that participated said that it was much needed and helpful, and that it is a very complicated matter and more research is needed.