As measles cases surge to a 35-year high in the US, driven by declining vaccination rates, biotech firms and academic institutions are beginning to develop new treatments. Historically, the effectiveness of the measles vaccine has limited research into treatments, but the recent rise in infections has created a pressing need.

Companies like Invivyd are developing monoclonal antibodies, similar to those used for COVID-19, which could offer short-term protection to vulnerable individuals and treat those infected. Researchers at the La Jolla Institute for Immunology are studying human antibodies that block the virus. Vanderbilt University, in partnership with Saravir Biopharma, is also working on a combination of two monoclonal antibodies to prevent viral mutation.

While these treatments show promise, they are likely years away from public availability and face challenges in manufacturing, funding clinical trials, and convincing vaccine-hesitant individuals to adopt them. Despite potential hurdles, the development of measles treatments is seen as a crucial step in addressing a growing public health concern, especially for those unable to be vaccinated.