WEBINAR: Beyond the Bite: The Growing Link Between Ticks and Food Allergy

Monday, June 9, 2026, 12:00 p.m.–1:00 p.m. ET 

This webinar offers a comprehensive overview of alpha-gal syndrome (AGS), a tick-borne condition triggered by exposure to galactose-α-1,3-galactose (“alpha-gal”), which can cause an allergy to mammalian meats and products containing mammal-derived ingredients, including certain medications and vaccines.  

Join us on Tuesday, June 9, at 12:00 p.m. ET, for an engaging, evidence-based session exploring the latest science behind AGS, including its origins, risk factors, and clinical challenges. Participants will gain practical insights to better recognize and support individuals living with AGS, enriched by the speaker’s personal experience with alpha-gal, offering a unique firsthand perspective on navigating this condition. 

About the Speaker

Sarah McGill, MD, MSc 

Sarah McGill, MD, MSc, is a core gastroenterologist and researcher at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill who diagnoses and manages alpha-gal syndrome. When she was in medical school, alpha-gal syndrome—which causes delayed allergic reactions to mammalian meats and products made from mammals—had not been discovered.  Dr. McGill was the first gastroenterologist to describe alpha-gal syndrome in the GI literature.  She collaborates with allergists and patients to better understand alpha-gal syndrome that causes predominant GI distress.   

Sashafae Lopez, RN

Meet Sashafae Lopez, an RN turned tech leader who is redefining clinical success. With over 15 years of experience and a "Consultant of the Year" award, Sashafae currently helps over 600 hospitals thrive at RapidAI. While her heart remains centered on patient advocacy. Living with alpha-gal syndrome has given her a unique, first-hand look at the challenges patients face, and she uses that insight to build a more resilient healthcare world for everyone 

 This webinar is supported by Applegate