For patients with confirmed or suspected influenza, we administer antiviral therapy immediately, regardless of how long the symptoms have lasted. Oseltamivir is the antiviral drug of choice for the treatment of influenza, and other antiviral medications for severe influenza include paramivir or zanamivir (both administered parenterally).
Acetaminophen or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may be used secondarily to relieve fever, headache and myalgia. Salicylates (e.g., aspirin) should be avoided because of their association with Reye syndrome.
For healthy non-pregnant adults under 65 years of age, we recommend annual influenza vaccination. For individuals 65 years of age and older and other individuals at higher risk for severe influenza (e.g., immunocompromised; chronic cardiovascular, pulmonary, or metabolic disease; and pregnancy), we also recommend annual influenza vaccination.
It is recommended that specific medications be used under the direction of a physician.