Teen Jeremy Webb Died From Tick-Caused Red Meat Allergy, Coroner Finds

A NSW coroner has found that Central Coast teenager Jeremy Webb died from a red meat allergy caused by tick bites. He is the first Australian confirmed to have died from this allergy. The coroner gave her findings on 26 February 2026.

Key Facts

• Who: Jeremy Webb, 16, from the NSW Central Coast.
• When he died: June 2022, after eating beef sausages on a camping trip at MacMasters Beach.
• Finding: An anaphylactic reaction to red meat, which triggered an asthma attack.
• Coroner: NSW Deputy State Coroner Carmel Forbes.
• Condition: Mammalian meat allergy, also called alpha-gal syndrome.

What Happened

Jeremy had trouble breathing after eating the sausages. His friends tried to help him. He collapsed and later died in hospital. His death was first put down to asthma.

“Without the anaphylaxis, the asthma would not have caused his death,” Magistrate Forbes said.

What Is Mammalian Meat Allergy?

It is an allergy to red meat such as beef, pork and lamb. Tick bites can cause it. Unlike most food allergies, reactions often happen two to 10 hours after eating. Jeremy had been bitten by ticks many times as a child.

How Common Is It?

Professor Sheryl van Nunen said people had a 50 per cent chance of getting the allergy after just two tick bites. CSIRO research found Pittwater, on Sydney’s northern beaches, had 744 cases per 100,000 people in 2025.

His Family’s Hope

“I don’t want any other parents to have to go through it,” his father, Johnathan Webb, said. His mother, Myfanwy Webb, said Jeremy “continues to make a positive impact” by helping save lives.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is alpha-gal syndrome?

An allergy to red meat that can be caused by tick bites.

Was Jeremy the first Australian to die from it?

Yes, he is the first confirmed case in Australia.

How can I protect myself from ticks?

Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about tick bite prevention and removal.

Conclusion

Jeremy’s story is helping raise awareness. Experts say better public education could save lives.

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