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Resistance to Tamiflu Increases |
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Resistance to Tamiflu Increases
As seasonal
influenza activity continues to increase, the CDC is monitoring a rise in
resistance to Tamiflu (oseltamivir). But the increase in resistance is not
worrisome enough that the agency is considering altering its recommendations
about the use of antiviral medication. Of 350 influenza isolates tested this
season, 16 (4.6%) were resistant to the antiviral medication, and all of the
resistance is among H1NI influenza A virus, where it accounts for 8.1% of
isolates tested -- up from 0.7% last flu season. The agency currently recommends
Tamiflu or Relenza (zanamivir) as a second line of defense -- after vaccination
-- against the seasonal flu, noting they can prevent infection or reduce the
severity of disease. CDC surveillance shows that 84% of cases of flu are being
caused by influenza A, with the remainder by influenza B. To read the CDC
updated influenza activity report for this season to date, go to the CDC website.
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