Flu Season Surge: CDC Advises Tamiflu Use, Cautions on Side Effects
The current flu season is proving to be particularly aggressive, with hospitals seeing more patients than usual. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has advised using Tamiflu to combat the dominant H3N2 strain, which has spread to all but one state. While effective, Tamiflu comes with potential side effects that require careful monitoring.
Tamiflu, a prescription antiviral medication, can reduce the severity of flu symptoms and shorten the duration of illness if taken within 48 hours of symptom onset. It works by blocking the flu virus from multiplying in the body. However, it can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and in rare cases, hallucinations or confusion.
Doctors warn that if serious side effects like confusion or delirium occur, medical attention should be sought immediately. To prevent dehydration, it's recommended to stop taking Tamiflu at the first signs of vomiting. Changing the formulation of Tamiflu, from pill to liquid or vice versa, can also help alleviate these side effects.
Tamiflu has proven useful in controlling flu outbreaks in nursing homes by reducing its spread. It may also decrease the risk of complications like ear infections in children and pneumonia in adults.
The CDC's recommendation to use Tamiflu during this active H3N2 flu wave underscores its importance in managing the current outbreak. While it comes with potential side effects, its benefits in reducing symptom severity and preventing complications are well-established. As the flu continues to spread across the U.S., staying informed about Tamiflu's usage and potential side effects is crucial.
