Abstract
Many flu-like illnesses are not caused by influenza, however influenza is a significant cause of morbidity. Its complications include pneumonia, and increase mortality particularly during pandemics. Elderly people are particularly vulnerable and vaccination is recommended for everyone over 65 years old. The efficacy of the vaccines depends on how well they match the circulating strains of the virus. A systematic review suggests the efficacy for preventing infection may be as low as 24%. The vaccine may be more efficacious at preventing complications in the elderly. Neuraminidase inhibitors and ion channel inhibitors are not very effective treatments for influenza.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 5-7 |
Number of pages | 3 |
Journal | Australian Prescriber |
Volume | 25 |
Issue number | 1 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 1 Jan 2002 |
Keywords
- Amantadine
- Neuraminidase inhibitors
- Pneumonia
- Vaccines