Article Image

IPFS News Link • Government

Feds Are Pushing Tamiflu & Other Antivirals During Nasty Flu Season

• http://www.huffingtonpost.com-MIKE STOBBE

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Friday sent a new alert to doctors, advising prompt use of Tamiflu and other antivirals for hospitalized flu patients and those at higher risk for complications like pneumonia.

CDC officials say a nasty strain of flu is going around that is more dangerous to elderly people and very young children. What's more, officials think the flu vaccine doesn't work well against this particular virus. So "it's more important than usual" that doctors treat certain patients with Tamiflu or other antiviral medications, CDC Director Dr. Tom Frieden said at a press conference Friday.

CDC officials said flu was reported to be widespread in 46 states last week, up from 43 the week before. But there was a small drop in states reporting high numbers of flu-related doctor's office visits. That's one sign that for some areas, the worst stretch of the current flu season may be ending.

Flu seasons tend to last about 13 weeks, and CDC data suggests the nation is about seven weeks in, Frieden said. "It seems we're right in the middle of flu season," he said.

However, while flu may be ebbing in some states, it's increasing in others, and it's not clear whether flu has peaked overall, health officials said.

CDC research suggests doctors prescribe antivirals to one in five high-risk flu patients. CDC officials say the number should be higher.


thelibertyadvisor.com/declare