Prophylaxis and treatment of influenza

Article Abstract:

Although it has been over two decades since the last severe flu pandemic swept across the US, the potential remains for a serious return of the disease. The Centers for Disease Control estimate that each of the 19 epidemics from 1957 to 1986 killed over 10,000 people, and in several of them the toll passed 40,000. Although vaccination plays the most important role in the prevention of influenza, two drugs are also very effective in preventing influenza A. The two drugs, amantadine and rimantadine, are not effective against influenza B, and only amantadine is approved for use in the United States. Although amantadine has mild to moderate side effects which include nervousness, lightheadedness, difficulty in concentrating, insomnia, nausea, and loss of appetite, it seems to have no serious side effects. Amantadine may supplement vaccination for influenza A, or it may be a substitute in high-risk groups in which vaccination is contraindicated. In addition, it is effective therapeutically if administered within the first 48 hours after infection. The combination of drug and vaccine prophylaxis needs to be explored more thoroughly in children, as does its usefulness in fighting the spread of flu within hospitals. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Physiological aspects, Rimantadine hydrochloride, Rimantadine, Amantadine

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Dose sparing with intradermal injection of influenza vaccine

Article Abstract:

A randomized, open-label trial was conducted outside the influenza season in 100 healthy adults 18 to 40 years of age to compare the immunogenicity and safety of intradermal immunization with influenza vaccine with standard intramuscular immunization. The trial revealed that young adults, intradermal administration of one fifth the standard intramuscular dose of an influenza vaccine elicited immunogenicity that was similar to or better than that elicited by intramuscular injection.

Influenza vaccines, Dosage and administration, Injections, Hypodermic, Subcutaneous injections

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Influenza in the family

Article Abstract:

Two drugs that belong to a class of drugs called neuraminidase inhibitors may be effective in preventing influenza in family members when one member develops symptoms. The drugs are zanamivir and oseltamivir. More research is needed to make sure these drugs are safe for children to take.

Health aspects, Editorial, Prevention, Zanamivir

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