Experimental oral antiviral blocks measles-like virus in ferrets
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Researchers at Georgia State University have developed an experimental oral antiviral that prevented a measles-like virus from spreading between ferrets through both close contact and the air. The treatment also reduced symptoms when given shortly before or after exposure. The findings were published in Nature Microbiology.
The Drug Candidate
The drug candidate, GHP-88310, is a broad-spectrum inhibitor of the viral polymerase, an enzyme essential for viral replication. It was previously described in Science Advances. In the study, prophylactic use of GHP-88310 blocked transmission via direct contact and shared air. When used to treat infected animals, it shortened the duration of contagiousness.
Measles Resurgence
Measles has reemerged in the United States since 2025, causing thousands of infections across several states, hundreds of hospitalizations, and three confirmed deaths. Canada and Mexico have also experienced major outbreaks with multiple deaths, threatening North America's measles elimination status. The study's authors suggest the drug could complement ring vaccination to contain outbreaks.
What's Next
The drug candidate GHP-88310 will need to undergo clinical trials in humans before it can be approved for use. It remains unclear whether the compound will prove as effective against measles virus in people as it did against canine distemper virus in ferrets.
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Experimental oral antiviral blocks measles-like virus in ferrets
