Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - A small amount of Lone Star ticks, which can cause a victim of its bite to develop a red meat allergy, has been reported in Erie County.
There's around six of them, says Erie County Parks Department Supervising Park Ranger Chuck Bartlett.
"Being new to the area, the Lone Star tick isn't something that's a huge red flag on my radar yet," Ranger Chuck tells WBEN.
The allergy to red meat is called Alpha Gal syndrome. Its carrier has been expanding its range.
"It is expanding throughout New York," says Ranger Chuck.
Whereas other types of ticks like dog ticks or black legged ticks may stick to one habitat, Lone Star ticks are more adventurous. They prefer all types, including woodlands, shrublands, grasses and lawns.
What can you do to protect yourself and keep your appetite for steak and hamburgers this summer?
"The number one thing you can do to protect yourself: tick checks. When you're out, you stop for water, do a quick tick check. Look over your body and clothes and if you see something you can remove it right then and there," Ranger Chuck says.
Using tick repellents is another effective strategy, Bartlett says.
Erie County Parks Department Supervising Park Ranger Chuck Bartlett says it's a small enough amount to not raise any red flags
Erie County Parks Department Supervising Park Ranger Chuck Bartlett says it's a small enough amount to not raise any red flags
