New guidance published on use of antivirals in flu treatment

New guidance has been published that recommends the use of antivirals in the treatment and prevention of influenza ahead of the imminent winter flu season.

The Public Health England recommendations have confirmed the drugs can reduce the risk of death in patients hospitalised with the virus.

It follows concern generated by reports earlier this year that suggested antivirals are not effective for flu, causing confusion that could have impacted the prescribing of these important drugs. However, the view has been taken that there is no evidence to support this.

A recent study of patients hospitalised with flu showed that among adults, treatment with antivirals was associated with a 25 percent reduction in the likelihood of death compared with no antiviral treatment.

Professor Paul Cosford, director for health protection and medical director at Public Health England, said the organisation "continues to support the early use of antivirals for patients with proven or suspected seasonal influenza who are in high-risk groups or who are considerably unwell, even if they are not in a high-risk group".

A flu vaccine is available free on the NHS for at-risk patient groups, including over-65s, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems.