The Pharmaceutical Journal
Vol 280 No 7500 p530
3 May 2008

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Reported cases of influenza in Wales reach level that triggers antiviral use

GPs in Wales have been told this week that they can prescribe neuraminidase inhibitors for patients with influenza in line with National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence guidance.

The National Public Health Service for Wales has issued the advice following investigation of influenza B outbreaks in nursing homes and hospitals over the past month.

“Although baseline levels are low,” NPHS health protection director Mike Simmons said, “we are seeing enough flu for it to be sensible to recommend that oseltamivir and zanamivir should be available for GPs to prescribe.”