### How It Works: - The tick bite transfers a sugar molecul…

### How It Works:
- The tick bite transfers a sugar molecule called **alpha-gal** (galactose-α-1,3-galactose) into the human body
- Alpha-gal is found in most mammals (cows, pigs, etc.) but **not in humans or primates**
- The immune system develops antibodies against alpha-gal, causing allergic reactions when consuming red meat
- Symptoms can range from mild to severe, including potentially life-threatening anaphylaxis