A Pictou County woman in Nova Scotia, Melissa Baines, has been diagnosed with alpha-gal syndrome, a rare allergic reaction triggered by lone star tick bites. After experiencing severe symptoms including joint pain, brain fog, and anaphylactic reactions to dairy, she was hospitalized. Doctors ruled out Lyme disease and confirmed the allergy through blood tests. The condition, linked to the sugar molecule in tick saliva, causes severe reactions to red meat and dairy. Health officials note that alpha-gal syndrome is not tracked in Nova Scotia but is under medical scrutiny. Baines now carries an EpiPen and avoids meat/dairy entirely, drastically altering her lifestyle. Public health recommendations include repellent use, protective clothing, and thorough tick checks. Experts warn of rising lone star tick populations and advise vigilance against potential allergic reactions.

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