Interim Antiviral Guidance for 2008-2009
Interim Antiviral Guidance for 2008-2009
On December 19, 2008, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued interim guidance indicating that a high proportion of influenza A (H1N1) viruses are resistant to the influenza antiviral medication oseltamivir (Tamiflu ®). Although influenza activity is low in the United States to date, preliminary data from a limited number of states indicate that the prevalence of influenza A (H1N1) virus strains resistant to the antiviral medication oseltamivir is high. Therefore, CDC is issued recommendations for antiviral treatment and chemoprophylaxis of influenza during the 2008-2009 influenza season. When influenza A (H1N1) virus infection or exposure is suspected, zanamivir ( Relenza ®) or a combination of oseltamivir and rimantadine are more appropriate options than oseltamivir alone. Local influenza surveillance data and laboratory testing can help with physician decision-making regarding the choice of antiviral agents for their patients. The 2008-2009 influenza vaccine is expected to be effective in preventing or reducing the severity of illness with currently circulating influenza viruses, including oseltamivir-resistant influenza A (H1N1) virus strains. Since influenza activity remains low and is expected to increase in the weeks and months to come, CDC recommends that influenza vaccination efforts continue.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)