What You Need to Know About Alpha-Gal Syndrome & Tick Control in Newport News, VA

The gorgeous weather that summer brings with it means lots of opportunities to explore the outdoors – but unfortunately, all that time outside will also increase your risk of exposure to tick-borne illnesses. There are several such diseases that have been identified in Virginia, and while many people are familiar with more well-known conditions like Lyme disease, there is a lesser-known risk that has been on the rise in recent years: Alpha-Gal Syndrome, or AGS.

What is Alpha-Gal Syndrome?

Alpha-Gal Syndrome is an allergy caused by a sugar molecule known as alpha-gal. This molecule is found in most mammals. When introduced to your body by a tick bite, alpha-gal can cause your immune system to overreact to red meat and other mammal products. People with AGS often experience delayed allergic reactions hours after eating beef, pork, or lamb. 

Symptoms may include hives, nausea, trouble breathing, and in severe cases, anaphylaxis. Some individuals also react to mammal-based ingredients in gelatin, dairy, or medications. Though symptoms may lessen over time, there is no cure for Alpha-Gal Syndrome, and diagnosis requires lifelong management and careful lifestyle adjustments.

Which Tick Causes Alpha-Gal Syndrome?

The lone star tick is the main species of tick associated with the spread of AGS. This species gets its name from a white dot that appears on the bodies of the female. Lone star ticks are especially aggressive and are known to bite humans more frequently than other species do. 

The species thrives in wooded or brushy environments – just like those found throughout Williamsburg. Though they were once rare in Virginia, the Lone Star tick's range has expanded significantly in recent years, and now its territory covers much of the state, including Newport News.

How Mosquito Squad Can Help with Newport News Tick Control

AGS is difficult to treat and is often life-altering. If you are concerned about this risk to your health, your best option is to avoid getting bitten in the first place. That’s where Mosquito Squad of Williamsburg can help. Our Yard Defender pest package includes powerful treatments that work effectively against ticks, as well as more than 20 other outdoor pests.

Yard Defender includes a detailed inspection of your property to identify areas where ticks and other pests are living and breeding, like tall grasses, shady corners, and damp vegetation. Once we determine where the tick hotspots are on your property, our technicians will target those areas with our Barrier Treatment Plus, made from a proprietary blend of essential oils that are known to deter pests. 

The spray will disrupt tick life cycles and provide your home with long-lasting defense – up to 21 days per application. This treatment is further supplemented with other solutions as needed, like broadcast granules or baits.

Why Trust Mosquito Squad for Your Outdoor Pest Control in Newport News?

Mosquito Squad has been a trusted name in pest control in Newport News, VA, and across the country since 2005. We stand apart from our competition due to our commitment to comprehensive, customer-first service. 

With Mosquito Squad, you can count on quick response times, exceptional convenience, and flexible options that can be tailored to your property and preferences. With tick-borne illnesses like Alpha-Gal Syndrome on the rise, now is the best time to act so that we can help keep you and your loved ones protected.

Searching for pest control near me?

For dependable outdoor pest control near you, call on the professionals at Mosquito Squad. Call (757) 280-3624 or contact us online for a complimentary Williamsburg pest control assessment and quote.

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