How is avian influenza in humans treated?
Studies done in laboratories suggest that the prescription medicines approved for human influenza viruses should work in treating avian influenza infection in humans. However, influenza viruses can become resistant to these drugs, so these medications may not always work.Should I stock up on antiviral medications, flu drugs, like Tamiflu?
No. There are a few reasons why having Tamiflu available in your home is not a good idea.It's not clear whether Tamiflu is effective against the current strain of the avian flu. In addition, flu viruses are constantly changing so that if there is ever an outbreak of bird flu in the UK, Tamiflu may not be effective against that strain.
Taking an antiviral medication such as Tamiflu if not necessary may cause the virus to develop resistance to the medication. In that case, Tamiflu may become ineffective against bird flu and against the ordinary flu when needed most, during an outbreak.
Tamiflu is not a vaccine; it can't protect you against flu in the future if you take it now. It is only effective while you are taking it.
Most importantly, we don’t know if there will ever be an outbreak of avian flu in the U.K.
What do I do if I'm travelling to East Asia?
Staying away from live poultry and poultry farms are recommended. If you become ill with fever or flu-like symptoms while away or within 10 days of returning home, seek medical care.(published with permission in writing from:http://www.nusonline.co.uk)
