As temperatures rise across Texas health experts are reminding residents that tick season is ramping up across the state. While many Texans prepare for mosquitoes during the warmer months, ticks pose a growing concern of their own — especially in East Texas and other humid areas.
Tick activity in Texas typically increases between April and September, when warmer temperatures and moisture create ideal breeding conditions. Experts say several species are common across the state, but two continue to draw the most attention in 2026.
The Lone Star tick remains one of the most aggressive and widespread ticks found in Texas. Female Lone Star ticks are known for the distinctive white marking on their backs and are frequently encountered in wooded areas, tall grass, and hiking trails.
Another species gaining attention is the Gulf Coast tick, which has expanded well beyond coastal regions and is now commonly found throughout South and East Texas. In some areas, experts say Gulf Coast ticks remain active year-round.
Beyond the nuisance of tick bites themselves, medical professionals are increasingly warning Texans about Alpha-gal Syndrome, often called AGS. The condition has been linked primarily to bites from the Lone Star tick and can trigger severe allergic reactions to red meat and certain dairy products.
Unlike many food allergies that cause immediate symptoms, Alpha-gal reactions are often delayed for several hours after eating. Some patients report waking up during the night with hives, stomach issues, breathing problems, or other allergic symptoms after consuming beef, pork, lamb, or related products earlier in the day.
Researchers say the delayed reaction occurs because Alpha-gal is tied to a sugar molecule rather than a protein. The body processes those compounds more slowly, which can delay symptoms anywhere from two to six hours after a meal.
Health experts also warn that certain factors may intensify reactions, including alcohol consumption, physical activity after eating, and repeated tick bites that further stimulate the immune system.
Doctors say anyone experiencing unexplained allergic reactions after eating red meat should speak with a medical professional. Blood testing can help determine whether Alpha-gal antibodies are present.
To reduce the risk of tick bites, Texans are encouraged to take precautions when spending time outdoors this summer.
Experts recommend wearing long sleeves and long pants in wooded or grassy areas, with pant legs tucked into socks when possible. Light-colored clothing can also help people spot ticks before they attach to the skin.
Insect repellents containing DEET remain a common defense for exposed skin, while Permethrin-based treatments can be applied to clothing for longer-lasting protection.
After outdoor activities, families are encouraged to check themselves, children, and pets carefully for ticks. Ticks are often found in warm, hidden areas including behind the knees, under arms, around the waistline, and behind the ears.
Property owners can also help limit tick populations by keeping lawns trimmed and reducing overgrown vegetation around homes. Experts say gravel or mulch barriers between wooded areas and yards may help reduce tick migration into residential spaces.
With outdoor activities increasing during the summer months, health officials say awareness and prevention remain the best defense against ticks and the illnesses they can carry.
ABOUT ALPHA-GAL SYNDROME:
Recent studies and reports from health agencies show Alpha-gal Syndrome cases are continuing to rise across the South, East, and Central United States, including Texas. Health experts believe many cases may still go undiagnosed because symptoms are often delayed and people may not immediately connect an allergic reaction to something they ate hours earlier. Unlike traditional food allergies that happen within minutes, Alpha-gal reactions commonly appear two to six hours after consuming red meat or products made from mammals.
Medical experts say Alpha-gal Syndrome symptoms can range from mild itching, stomach pain, nausea, and hives to severe breathing difficulties and life-threatening anaphylaxis. Some people may also react to dairy products, gelatin, medications, or foods containing mammal-derived ingredients. Doctors recommend anyone experiencing symptoms seek medical attention, especially if breathing problems, swelling, dizziness, or severe allergic reactions occur. In emergency situations, individuals should call 911 immediately. Health professionals also advise avoiding additional tick bites, as repeated exposure may worsen the allergy and trigger stronger reactions over time.
