Requires reporting of the tick-borne disease of Alpha-gal syndrome

Showing the cosponsors who are on Agora, A to Z. The official record may list more.

• Democratic1

Shown in neutral colors by design; Agora is non-partisan.

◆ The sponsor's argument

Why Rachel May says this is needed

Alpha-gal syndrome has emerged as a life changing condition caused by the bite from a Lone Star tick which is prevalent across New York State. The syndrome can cause individuals to develop new allergic reactions to red meat and other mammal products. Some people have died because of allergic reactions caused by this syndrome. Diagnosis is difficult as there is no single definitive test. Currently, a blood test for specific antibodies to Alpha-gal is the primary means of confirmation. New York, specifically Long Island, is a hot spot for Alpha-gal syndrome. According to the CDC, Suffolk County appears to have more cases of Alpha-gal than any other county in the United States. The CDC study also suggests that between 3,800 and 18,000 people in Suffolk County have the syndrome. Despite this New York does not currently require the reporting of cases and therefore lacks necessary data to properly respond to the spread of this syndrome across the state. Other hot spots include Arkansas, Kentucky, and Virginia; all three of those states now require the reporting of any positive Alpha-gal syndrome test. In addition, New York City tracks cases of the syndrome despite it not being prevalent there. Making Alpha-gal syndrome a reportable condition will allow the Depart- ment of Health to collect data on the syndrome including where hotspots are and to use that data to better respond to its spread. Reporting will also support healthcare providers in diagnosing the condition more effectively. FISCAL IMPACT: None to the state.

This is the sponsor's own case for the bill, quoted from their memorandum. It is not Agora's description of what the bill does.