Treatment of human enterovirus infections

Infections with the human EVs cause significant morbidity and even mortality. Progress toward the development;of anti-EV therapy has been substantial. In vitro efficacy of several classes of antiviral agents against the EVs (including those targeting cell susceptibility, virus attachment and binding, virus uncoating, viral RNA replication and protein production) has led to clinical evaluation of the most promising compounds. Of those in active development, the capsid-binding compounds have received the most clinical study and the leading compound, pleconaril, has now been shown to he efficacious in naturally-occurring, serious EV infection (aseptic meningitis). Widespread use of these compounds in less serious EV infections will depend upon the continued demonstration of safety and tolerability.