Radford University experts available: Ticks

Radford, VA (04/23/2026) — Radford University experts are available to speak on the following topics:

Jenny Hall leads Ticks In Virginia, an initiative to raise awareness about the dangers of ticks and tick-borne diseases. Hall, an associate professor in the Department of Public Health and Healthcare Leadership at the Waldron College of Health Sciences at Radford University in Roanoke, Virginia, began teaching about Lyme disease in 2015 and conducting research with people impacted by chronic Lyme disease in 2018, expanding her work to include alpha-gal syndrome and other tick-borne diseases in 2021.

"Tick-borne diseases like chronic Lyme disease and alpha-gal syndrome can affect all dimensions of well-being," Hall said. "They don't just impact physical health. They affect mental and emotional well-being, relationships, and daily life, including the ability to work." People's lived experiences, documented through Hall's research, highlight how complex and impactful these conditions can be.

Ticks, especially the Lone Star Tick, are common in Southwest Virginia and are increasing. There is evidence of 12 diseases circulating in ticks, animals, and humans across Virginia, including the rapidly emerging alpha-gal syndrome, which many people are still unaware of and the serious impacts it can have.

Hall has conducted urban tick surveillance projects; lived experience studies; and research on knowledge, attitudes, and prevention behaviors, along with implementation-focused work with teachers and healthcare providers. She is committed to translating this work into practical, evidence-based resources to increase awareness and advance tick-borne disease education and prevention, including efforts to better support healthcare providers in recognizing and managing these conditions.

Phone: (540) 831-2562
Email: jlhall2@radford.edu