As flu becomes more widespread, CDC pushes antiviral meds
By The Associated Press
Posted 1:46PM on Friday, January 9, 2015
NEW YORK (AP) -- In the midst of a worrisome flu season, health officials are pushing doctors to prescribe antiviral medicines.<br />
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Friday sent a new alert to doctors, advising prompt use of Tamiflu and other antivirals for hospitalized flu patients and those at higher risk for complications like pneumonia.<br />
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CDC research suggests doctors prescribe antivirals to one in five high-risk flu patients. CDC officials say the number should be higher.<br />
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One reason is physician uncertainty: CDC says the drugs reduce hospitalizations and complications, but some researchers have said there's not good evidence that's true.<br />
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CDC officials say the flu season may be about half over, though it's hard to be sure. Flu is now widespread in 46 states.<br />
