Are there targeted groups for treating the flu with an antiviral drug?

Most people ill with the flu will recover without complications. 

Some people are at increased risk of flu complications and doctors will prioritize the treatment with flu antiviral drugs this season. The people who may most need antiviral treatment include:

• People with more severe illness, such as those hospitalized with suspected or confirmed influenza
• People with suspected or confirmed influenza who are at higher risk for complications
  • Children younger than 2 years old
  • Adults 65 years and older
  • Pregnant women
  • People with certain chronic medical or immunosuppressive conditions
• People younger than 19 years of age who are receiving long-term aspirin therapy

Children and adults presenting with suspected influenza who have symptoms of lower respiratory tract illness or clinical deterioration should also receive prompt empiric antiviral therapy, regardless of previous health or age.

Physicians may also decide not to treat some people in these groups and/or treat people who are not in these groups based on their clinical judgment.

Last Updated: 09/23/2009

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