A Central Coast teenager has been identified as the first Australian to die from a rare tick-induced red meat allergy, following an inquest into his sudden death during a camping trip.
Jeremy Webb, 16, collapsed after eating beef sausages while camping at MacMasters Beach in June 2022. He was rushed to hospital but died shortly after arrival. An inquest has now confirmed the cause of death as anaphylaxis due to mammalian meat allergy triggered by previous tick bites, which led to a severe asthma attack.
Inquest reveals hidden allergy risk
The condition, widely known as Alpha-gal syndrome, is a potentially life-threatening allergy to mammalian products such as beef, pork and lamb. It is commonly linked to bites from the Ixodes holocyclus, found along Australia’s east coast.
Unlike typical food allergies, symptoms of alpha-gal syndrome can be delayed for several hours, making diagnosis difficult. Jeremy had reportedly experienced nausea and breathing difficulties after eating red meat for several years, alongside a history of asthma.
Initially, his death was attributed to asthma. However, the NSW Deputy State Coroner later determined that an allergic reaction was the primary driver, which triggered acute respiratory failure.
Clinical immunologist Dr Sheryl van Nunen posthumously diagnosed the condition, noting rising cases across coastal New South Wales and Queensland.
Family hopes awareness will save lives
Jeremy’s mother, Myfanwy Webb, told the inquest that limited awareness at the time led her to believe the condition was merely a food intolerance.
Authorities have recommended improved allergy education and hospital protocols to better recognise atypical anaphylaxis cases linked to tick bites.
Fatalities from mammalian meat allergy remain exceptionally rare worldwide. Jeremy’s passing is believed to be the first recorded in Australia and only the second globally.
Remembered as adventurous, kind, and full of life, Jeremy’s legacy now includes raising awareness about a hidden but potentially deadly allergy.