Caroline B. Hall, M.D.

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Dr. Hall's research interests are:

1) Virology

2) Human Herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6)

3) Human Herpesvirus 7 (HHV-7)

4) Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Immunization

5) Epidemiology.

Dr. Hall's research projects focus mainly on the immunopathogenesis of viruses, especially the human herpesvirus (HHV6 and HHV7) and respiratory viruses, such as RSV, influenza, parainfluenza viruses, and metapneumovirus.

Studies of human herpesvirus 6 and 7 focus on the understanding of the pathogenesis of primary infection in young children, as well as throughout life as a latent virus, and its effect on immunocompetence. Our investigations have shown that HHV6 may be latent or persistent in the central nervous system after primary infection. We have shown HHV6 can cause congenital infection, but the importance of congenital HHV6 infection is unknown, and we are currently examining the neurodevelopmental outcome of congenitally infected children.

Studies of respiratory viruses, especially RSV, are aimed at delineating the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and immunology of these viral infections, with the aims of determining the burden and control of acute respiratory illness in young children. For RSV we are examining the role that the immune response and strain play in susceptibility to infection and severity of disease.

Another major interest involves vaccines, including trials of new viral and bacterial vaccines and other prophylactic measures, as well as immunization policies toward the development of new and combination vaccines, and toward effective programs of immunization of children.

Specialty

Infectious Diseases

Current Appointments

• Professor - Department of Pediatrics (SMD)
• Professor - Department of Medicine (SMD)