Questions & Answers: Antiviral Drugs, 2009-2010 Flu Season
Background
On September 22, 2009 CDC updated its recommendations for the use of influenza antiviral medicines to provide additional guidance for clinicians in prescribing antiviral medicines for treatment and prevention (chemoprophylaxis) of influenza during the 2009-2010 flu season. These recommendations are intended to help clinicians prioritize use of antiviral drugs for treatment and prevention of influenza. As in earlier antiviral recommendations posted on May 6, 2009 and updated on September 8, 2009, the priority for use of antiviral medications this season continues to be in people with more severe illness, such as people hospitalized with influenza, and people at increased risk of influenza-related complications. This document has been updated to provide additional clarification on several issues, including the increased risk for complications in young children, particularly children younger than 2 years of age.
As with any medical decision making, clinical judgment is an essential factor in making decisions about treatment with antiviral medications.
How is the new guidance different from the guidance that was issued on September 8, 2009?
The priority use for antiviral medications during the upcoming influenza season remains generally the same as outlined in the antiviral recommendations first posted on May 6, 2009 and updated on September 8, 2009; that is to prioritize use of these drugs for those patients who are severely ill (such as those who are hospitalized) and those patients who are ill with influenza-like illness and who are at higher risk for influenza related complications. New information in the updated guidance dated September 22, 2009 includes:
Additional context and guidance for clinicians regarding the risk for complications and treatment considerations for young and very young children.
Information regarding the oral dosing dispenser included in the Tamiflu® for Oral Suspension packaging and instructions to insure the units of measure on the prescription instructions match the dosing device are also included.
More information about the possible underlying physiological conditions that may be associated with neuromuscular and neurocognitive disorders that might contribute to the increased risk for influenza complications in persons with these types of disorders.