What are flu

antivirals?

Antivirals are available to treat viral infections – like the flu.1 

Flu antivirals work by targeting the flu virus directly, stopping it from multiplying in the body.2 They are prescription-only medications, meaning you cannot purchase them over the counter in your local pharmacy.1 


Antivirals are used to treat viral infections. Flu antivirals work by targeting the flu virus directly, stopping it from multiplying in the body.1 They are prescription-only medications, meaning you cannot purchase them over the counter in your local pharmacy.

Antivirals can help you or your loved ones beat the flu by:

  • Shortening the length of the illness3,4
  • Reducing the severity of symptoms3
  • Helping prevent complications related to the flu3–5

Did you know?
Antivirals can help you get better, fast3,4 –
so you can get back to your usual routine.

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Most people with the flu will eventually recover without complications. But for some, particularly those at high risk, the flu left untreated could lead to more serious health problems, hospitalisation, and even death.6

Did you know?
Antivirals can reduce the risk of hospitalisation for those at high risk,3-6 and, if prescribed early, can reduce the risk of death for those already in hospital.6,7

Let your loved ones know that the flu can be treated, to help protect them from its complications.3–5,7–9

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Antiviral treatment can help you beat the flu.1-3

Ask your doctor if an antiviral is right for you.

It’s important to speak to your doctor or healthcare provider as soon as possible.

References

  1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). What You Should Know About Influenza (Flu) Antiviral Drugs: Fact Sheet, 2018. Available from: www.cdc.gov/flu/pdf/freeresources/updated/antiviral-factsheet-updated.pdf. Last accessed: October 2020.
  2. Stiver G. CMAJ 2003; 168(1): 49–56.
  3. Allen UD et al. Can J Infect Dis Med Microbiol 2006; 17(5): 273–284.
  4. Hayden FG & Pavia AT. J Infect Dis 2006; 194: S119–126.
  5. Wallick C et al. Poster presented at IDWeek. 3–7th October 2018. San Francisco, CA, USA.
  6. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). People at High Risk of Developing Serious Flu-Related Complications. Available from: www.cdc.gov/flu/about/disease/high_risk.htm. Last accessed: October 2020.
  7. Uyeki TM et al. Clin Infect Dis 2019; doi: 10.1093/cid/ciy866.
  8. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, 2011; 60: 1. Available from: www.cdc.gov/mmwr/pdf/rr/rr6001.pdf. Last accessed: October 2020.
  9. Muthuri SG et al. Lancet Respir Med 2014; 2(5): 395–404.