Discover Magazine is running a really interesting post on little-known facts about allergies. The link between ticks, meat and violent allergic reactions immediately stuck out.
Since 2009, immunologist Scott Commins has been studying this bizarre connection. His research reveals that tick bites can trigger the production of antibodies that target alpha-galactoside, a carbohydrate found in beef, pork and lamb. The next time you eat meat, your body may use these antibodies to mount a violent, self-destructive immune response more commonly known as anaphylaxis.
"We've had people nearly die," Commins says.
What's really chilling about all of this is there's a good chance you won't have any idea you've developed a meat allergy to begin with. After all, ticks are usually pretty benign parasites. Theycan carry and transmit diseases, but rarely do, so in most cases there's no cause for concern. But if your body does happen to start producing anti-alpha-gal antibodies, you won't know it until the next time you eat meat, at which point they have the potential to facilitate anaphylaxis.
In any case, the next time you're walking barefoot through a field only to find a tick between your toes, remember to be careful the next time you eat meat — your body may be on a self-destruct mission to kill all alpha-gal.
http://io9.com/5911490/a-tick-bite-could-turn-you-into-a-vegetarian
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At Marlin we get much of our business by recommendation. If you have been on one of our courses you know all about the 'Marlin Difference'. If you subsequently recommend Marlin to another company (and they book a course) we will provide you with either a suitable first aid kit or an iPod shuffle.
Marlin has recently upgraded to Full Corporate Training Membership with Association of First Aiders (AoFA). The AoFA is now the UK's LARGEST first aid association with over 2,000 first aiders, first aid trainers and training providers. Upgrading to our current status means that our certificates now gain National Recognition and HSE Approval from the AoFA. The AoFA also monitor the quality of all courses to ensure that they meet the highest standards.
From October 2009 a new first aid course will replace the old 'Appointed Persons' course.