Tick Concerns Rise in Martha’s Vineyard

In 1975, a movie filmed in Martha’s Vineyard instilled a fear of water in people. Now, the island faces a new threat, pushing residents to avoid the outdoors.

“It’s gotten to the point now that grandparents are not allowing their grandchildren to visit them,” observed Sam Telford, highlighting the rising anxiety. Ben DeForest, a local resident, explained, “We stay in the apartment. You just don’t know; these things are out there.” The source of the concern? Ticks.

Ticks have transmitted diseases like Lyme disease, babesiosis, ehrlichiosis, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever for centuries.

This year, emergency room visits for tick bites are the highest they have been in nearly ten years. Ticks are spreading to new regions, bringing along a new concern: Alpha-gal syndrome. A single tick bite can cause violent allergic reactions to meats like beef and pork.

Adriana Stimola, a resident of Martha’s Vineyard, recounted experiencing Alpha-gal syndrome, saying, “Five hours after having a hamburger, I wake up with a rash and swelling.” Her entire family was affected, including her husband, who experienced swelling and urged, “Get in the car!” The syndrome can lead to severe reactions, including anaphylactic shock, and sensitivities to dairy, the aroma of meat, and products like marshmallows.

Managing social interactions becomes challenging, as Stimola noted, “It kind of hurts to say, ‘Oh, I can’t eat that,’ because I miss that connection.” DeForest, owner of the Red Cat Kitchen, accommodates customers by offering an Alpha-gal friendly menu.

Understanding Alpha-gal Syndrome

Alpha-gal, short for galactose-α-1,3-galactose, is a sugar molecule spread by the lone star tick. Though the illness isn’t new, awareness has grown due to its impact in affluent areas like the Hamptons and Martha’s Vineyard.

Sam Telford, a professor of infectious disease, stated, “It’s awareness now.” Lone star tick populations are increasing, particularly in the Northeast.

Tick Prevention Strategies

To combat tick exposure, Tom Mather, a public health entomologist, advised wearing permethrin-treated clothing and tucking pants into socks. Ticks are most easily found on the underside of leaves during larva season.

Ticks attract attention due to their link to deer. “The white-tailed deer are the primary breeding ground for lone star ticks,” stated Aubrey Stimola Ryan. A single deer supports vast quantities of ticks, prompting considerations of deer population management. “Reducing deer will reduce ticks,” emphasized Telford.

Mitigation and Outlook

Not every tick bite results in disease, and Alpha-gal syndrome can sometimes be reversed with time. Advice includes using tick repellents and checking for ticks daily. Mather emphasized checking areas where clothing might stop ticks, like waistbands and bra straps.

For Adriana Stimola, a philosophical outlook prevails, emphasizing the need for discussions about meat consumption and sustainable practices.

For further information, reach out to experts like Thomas Mather at the University of Rhode Island’s Center for Vector-Borne Disease and Sam Telford at Tufts University.