Tamiflu Can Prevent Pneumonia in Young Children with Flu

Recent studies showed that children with flu (influenza) who received Tamiflu within one day after diagnosis were 53% less likely to develop pneumonia than other children who were not given the influenza pill. The medication developed by Roche can also reduce the severity of infection, as can its rival drug Relenza.

In scrutinizing health records of more than 15,000 children ages 1 to 12 who came down with flu, researchers found that about 2.6 percent developed pneumonia. Pneumonia, sometimes caused by a bacterial or secondary infection, is one of flu’s most serious complications.


A study of adults with serious cases of influenza also showed Tamiflu to reduce deaths from flu and its complications by 71%. Around the world, flu is responsible for the deaths of between 250,000 to 500,000 people each year, especially those who develop pneumonia.

Persons given the newer antiviral medications were much less likely to die. Tamiflu is now given to bird flu victims, and if given early enough, it appears to save lives. Older flu drugs are not as effective as Tamiflu and Relenza and are no longer recommended.

The Center for Disease Control recommends an annual vaccine as the best protection against influenza, although it is not 100% reliable for prevention. Older adults are the most at risk of dying from flu and its complications.

Get a flu shot in the fall if you are:

 · 50 or older
 · With a chronic health condition
 · Pregnant during flu season
 · A health care worker
 · All children 6 months to 5 years
 · A person living with or caring for someone in these categories or with a child under 6 months old 

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