CDC urges careful use of anti-viral meds against flu

Calling anti-viral medications a “critical part” of the tool kit to counter the flu, Rear Adm. Anne Schuchat of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention highlighted some new guidance on the treatment and prevention of influenza—including the deadly H1N1 strain—for the coming 2009-10 flu season.

As with the agency’s earlier guidelines, the recommendations still call for treatment of influenza with the anti-viral medications oseltamivir and zanamivir for people with suspected or confirmed influenza, and generally for those who are at higher risk, such as pregnant women, very young children, adults over the age of 65, and people who have certain chronic conditions. But Schuchat emphasized that anti-viral medications should be used carefully so they can have a benefit. “A key point is that most children, adolescents and adults do not need anti-viral medicine,” Schuchat told members of the media. “If all of those people take anti-virals, things might get worse.”

In its updated guidance, the CDC said clinical judgment is an important factor for all anti-viral-treatment decisions. The agency also highlighted the importance of early treatment and, in certain circumstances, the use of prescriptions for patients at higher risk after they have consulted with a provider by telephone.

“Based on global experience to date,” the guidance said, “2009 H1N1 influenza viruses likely will be the most common influenza viruses among those circulating in the coming season, particularly those causing influenza among younger age groups.”

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