NanoViricides (NYSE-A:NNVC) said on Tuesday its antiviral drug candidate NV-387 could help address rising measles cases globally, citing recent outbreaks and unmet treatment needs.
The company pointed to data from Bangladesh showing 18,219 suspected measles cases over the last month, with transmission reported in most districts.
More than 80% of cases were in children under five, with fatalities largely among unvaccinated individuals.
Authorities have launched a vaccination campaign targeting 1.2 million children in an initial phase.
NanoViricides president Anil Diwan said current responses focus primarily on vaccination and do not address immediate treatment needs for infected patients. He added that NV-387 could reduce transmission by shortening recovery times and could also be used in lower doses to help prevent infection among close contacts, including healthcare workers.
"Our drug NV-387 is currently the only medical countermeasure that can help these patients and save lives,” Diwan said in a statement.
NanoViricides said vaccination remains effective but typically requires weeks to confer protection and involves two doses for maximum efficacy, leaving individuals vulnerable during active outbreaks.
The company said NV-387 has shown effectiveness and safety in animal studies of measles infection and has completed a Phase I clinical trial with no reported adverse events, indicating tolerability in humans.
In the US, 1,738 confirmed measles cases had been reported across 33 jurisdictions as of April 16, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, with additional cases reported since then.
NanoViricides said certain groups, including infants below vaccination age and immunocompromised individuals, may remain at risk despite vaccination, underscoring the need for complementary treatments.
The company has applied to the US Food and Drug Administration for orphan drug and rare pediatric disease designations for NV-387 as a measles treatment. Such designations can provide incentives, including tax credits, fee waivers and potential market exclusivity, as well as eligibility for a priority review voucher upon approval.