SPRINGFIELD – Legislation sponsored by State Representative Dan Swanson (R-Alpha) which would provide educational materials regarding alpha-gal syndrome on the website of the Department of Public Health has passed the Illinois House.
Alpha-gal syndrome is spread by tick bites and presents as a red meat allergy. Swanson said he has a very close personal relationship with alpha-gal syndrome.
“My mom has alpha-gal and it is a very serious situation,” Swanson said. “If she is at a diner or a restaurant and she is served beef or if the chicken she ordered has been on a grill where beef was prepared, she will have a severe allergic reaction.”
Swanson’s bill, House Bill 1754, passed the House 106-0 and is now headed to the Senate for further consideration. Swanson said the action could not come a moment too soon.
“The numbers are increasing. We need to start a strong educational campaign,” Swanson said.
71st District residents can find more news about the General Assembly and information about upcoming events on Rep. Swanson’s legislative website at repswanson.com.