URGENT: Tick-Borne Red Meat Allergy Kills NJ Man, Experts Warn of Growing Threat

Breaking News: Tick-Borne Red Meat Allergy Claims Life in New Jersey A 47-year-old airplane pilot in New Jersey has died after suffering a severe reaction to a red meat allergy caused by a tick bite, according to researchers at the University of Virginia School of Medicine. The man, who was identified as a resident of New Jersey, fell ill four hours after eating a hamburger at a barbecue in 2024. The victim's son found him unconscious on the floor of a bathroom surrounded by vomit, and he was declared dead at a hospital. The autopsy cited a "sudden unexplained death." Just two weeks prior, the man had become ill after eating a steak dinner, experiencing abdominal discomfort, pain, diarrhea, and vomiting. Alpha-gal syndrome, a red meat allergy caused by tick bites, is a growing concern among health experts. The CDC has warned about the potential risks associated with tick bites and this specific allergy. Researchers believe this is the first documented death from alpha-gal syndrome. The University of Virginia School of Medicine researchers published their findings in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. The case highlights the importance of awareness and prompt medical attention for tick-borne illnesses. This is a developing story, and we will provide updates as more information becomes available.