What You Need to Know about Ticks and Alpha-Gal Syndrome in Greenville, SC

Now that summer has arrived, it’s more important than ever to be aware of the risks of exposure to ticks. Those risks include more well-known health issues like Lyme disease, the most common tick-borne illness in the United States, but Greenville’s location in the southeastern region of the country leaves its residents vulnerable to a newer threat caused by tick bites: Alpha-Gal Syndrome.

What Is Alpha-Gal Syndrome?

Alpha-Gal Syndrome (AGS) is a serious condition associated with tick bites. The bite results in an allergy to a sugar molecule called alpha-gal. This sugar molecule is found in the tissues of most mammals, so eating meat will trigger an allergic reaction. Symptoms range from mild to severe and can include hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, or even anaphylaxis.

Those who live with AGS must adopt a drastic change in their diet and lifestyle because any products that are derived from mammals can result in an allergic reaction. No cure currently exists, and while some people experience a reduction in symptoms over time, most affected individuals must manage the condition for the rest of their lives.

Which Tick Causes Alpha-Gal Syndrome?

Alpha-Gal Syndrome is caused mainly by the Lone Star tick, a species native to some eastern regions of the United States, including here in the Southeast. In fact, researchers at Clemson University identified it as the most often discovered tick species in the state. Its bite often goes undetected, and it has a habit of latching onto its hosts for up to a week at a time. It is a particularly aggressive species that lives mainly in wooded or grassy areas. It is identified by a noticeable white spot near its neck, from which it gets its name.

How Mosquito Squad Can Help with Greenville Tick Control

The best way to avoid AGS and other tick-borne illnesses is to avoid exposure to ticks in the first place. However, that can be tricky, considering the stealthy behaviors that allow ticks to take advantage of their hosts. Mosquito Squad can help you find success in your tick management strategy.

What Greenville Tick Control Treatments Are Available?

Something our Mosquito Squad customers love about our services is flexibility. We understand that differing lifestyles and preferences require different approaches. Some of our Greenville tick control methods include:

Barrier Treatment Plus

If you prefer a natural alternative for your pest control needs, consider our Barrier Treatment Plus. This formula is created with essential oils that are known to keep pests away, like cedarwood. This plant-derived treatment can deter ticks and other pests for up to 21 days after application.

Yard Defender

Ticks are often just one of many pest concerns Greenville residents face. Our Yard Defender pest package can help you fight back not only against ticks but also against over 20 other common outdoor pests.

Tick Tubes

Tick tubes are an innovative supplemental treatment that takes advantage of the natural instincts of wildlife to help limit tick populations. Our technicians will plant tubes filled with insecticide-treated cotton, which, when used by small mammals for nesting, can help control local tick populations.

Why Choose Mosquito Squad of Greenville?

If you’re looking for dependable tick control in Greenville, Mosquito Squad of Greenville is the clear choice. Our strong history of successful treatments and satisfied customers speak for us, and since 2005, we’ve become a nationally trusted provider of effective pest control solutions.

Searching for pest control near me?

For dependable outdoor pest control near you, call on the professionals at Mosquito Squad. Call (864) 362-2013 or contact us online for a complimentary Greenville pest control assessment and quote.

Read about our 100% customer satisfaction guarantee (terms and conditions apply)!