In February, a New South Wales coroner ruled that the 2022 death of 15-year-old Jeremy Webb was caused by anaphylaxis triggered by mammalian meat allergy (MMA). The condition, also known as alpha-gal syndrome, was linked to prior bites from the eastern paralysis tick. This is reported to be the first confirmed death worldwide attributed to the allergy.
MMA is caused by a sugar molecule called alpha-gal found in tick saliva. According to Professor Sheryl van Nunen, who first identified the link in 2007, repeated tick bites can lead to the development of antibodies that react to mammalian products, including beef, pork, and gelatin. Symptoms can range from mild rashes and nausea to life-threatening respiratory distress.
Australia's east coast is one of two primary hotspots for the condition globally, alongside the United States. Dr. Alex Gofton, a tick expert, reported a 22% annual increase in diagnosed cases since 2020. Researchers attribute this rise to increased human population in bushland areas, recent heavy rainfall cycles favorable to ticks, and improved medical awareness and testing.
Medical professionals noted that MMA is difficult to diagnose because reactions often occur several hours after ingestion. Sufferers may not react to meat every time, as factors such as alcohol consumption, exercise, or illness can influence the severity of the immune response. In Australia, an estimated 5,000 people are currently living with the condition, though researchers suggest the actual number may be higher.