Health Experts Warn Oklahomans of ‘Lonestar Ticks’ & Severe Reactions from Bites

Doctors and health experts across the state are warning Oklahomans about the recent increase in Lonestar Tick populations and activity. This Summer you'll want to protect yourself, your family, and your pets.

If bitten you could have a severe, possibly life-threatening reaction that could have long-term health effects. The Lonestar Tick has already caused infections in people across the Sooner State.

I've heard of the Lonestar Tick and I've even seen them before, but I thought they carried Lyme Disease. As it turns out they carry bacteria that can cause severe reactions, swelling, rash, and all kinds of other symptoms called STARI (Southern tick-associated rash illness).

Not only that some people who are bitten by the Lonestar Tick come down with AGS (Alpha-gal Syndrome). It's a severe allergy to red meats and all products made from mammals including milk and milk products. Those who suffer from AGS can have reactions that can be life-threatening, similar to other food allergies.

Hit play on the video below to learn more about the Lonestar Tick & AGS

Recently KOCO News Channel 5 (ABC) out of Oklahoma City, OK. did a featured story and article on the Lonestar Tick which is how I found out these things carry something even worse than Lyme Disease!

I can't even imagine what it would be like to have AGS and never be able to enjoy a steak, hamburgers, hotdogs, or even a glass of milk without becoming violently ill and possibly dying from it. All I eat is red meat, I'd be totally screwed! So the plan is to never be bit by a Lonestar Tick and avoid them at all cost.

Unfortunately, Oklahoma is listed as one of the few states where Lonestar Ticks can be found and where they are active. So how do you protect yourself and your family and pets? Ticks can be found any time of the year and season but they are most active and prevalent during the spring and summer months.

Since we'll all be spending lots of time outdoors over the next couple of months what can you do to avoid being bitten? Ticks love the woods, tall grass and areas with lots of vegetation they can hide in. When you're in places like this you'll want to wear pants, long sleeves, and use insect spray that contains DEET.

You can visit the official CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) for helpful tips on how to protect yourself and prevent tick bites, click here to learn more. Be on the lookout for Lonestar Ticks, or really any ticks, and stay safe this Summer.