Medifile: Part II: OSELTAMIVIR IN THE MANAGEMENT OF INFLUENZA IN ADULT PATIENTS

Abstract

Part II: OSELTAMIVIR IN THE MANAGEMENT OF INFLUENZA IN ADULT PATIENTS Influenza is a common and underrated seasonal illness and every year adults and children worldwide are affected. Typically annual outbreaks of influenza epidemics occur in winter months. A substantial demand is inflicted on the healthcare resources and industry each year resulting from increased primary care consultation, drug treatment, clinical complications, referrals, hospitalisations and work absenteeism. Influenza is debilitating, and a typical case can restrict activity for 5 to 6 days, can cause 3 to 4 days of bed disability and 3 days lost from school or work. Although rare, global outbreaks called pandemics can occur, with significant epidemiological impact. Three pandemics were recorded during the 20th century: the Spanish influenza pandemic in 1918, the so-called ‘Asian virus’ in 1957 and the most recent pandemic that originated in Hong Kong in 1968-1969. These pandemics caused widespread deaths.