Use of Influenza Antivirals to Prevent Transmission
Benjamin J Cowling1,2, Yun Lin1, Hideyuki Ikematsu3
1WHO Collaborating Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Control, School of Public Health, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China.
Abstract:
Influenza antivirals play an important role in the prevention and control of influenza. We reviewed data on the effectiveness of influenza antivirals for reducing influenza transmission. We found that antiviral prophylaxis, whether given pre- or postexposure, has been shown to reduce the risk of symptomatic influenza in a variety of settings and populations. During pandemic responses, antiviral prophylaxis could play an important role, as demonstrated by the use of amantadine in the 1968-1969 influenza A(H3N2) pandemic and oseltamivir during the 2009-2010 influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 pandemic. Antiviral treatment reduces symptom severity, prevents complications, and can reduce onward transmission of infection. However, resistance, accessibility, and timing pose challenges. Future research directions include innovative therapies and combination treatments. Continued research and stewardship are crucial to optimize antiviral impact.
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