Medicines in fight against the flu

Picture / Martin Sykes

* Tamiflu
One of two anti-viral medicines that may be effective against the strain circulating in birds. The other medicine is Relenza, which is not marketed in this country.

There is no conclusive evidence of its effectiveness against the human equivalent of the virus in birds. The drug, however, can prevent you from catching the flu, or if taken early enough after the onset of illness, can make the symptoms less severe and aid recovery. It also reduces the chances of passing the flu on to someone else.

The Government has stockpiled 855,000 courses of Tamiflu, enough for a fifth of the population. During a pandemic, front-line health workers, police, border control staff, Cabinet ministers and their staff would receive the first doses of Tamiflu. It is also likely to be used to treat the sick.

At present it is available only with a doctor's prescription. Whether it is prescribed, at a patient's request, is at the discretion of the GP. Prescriptions would not come from the Government's stockpile.

There is no international advice that individuals should stockpile Tamiflu. Cost varies, but expect to pay between $75 and $80 for 10 capsules. Pharmacies will not have it in stock until closer to the flu season.

Those with symptoms need to take Tamiflu within 48 hours for it to be effective. One capsule is taken twice daily. As a preventative measure, the usual dose is one capsule a day after close contact with a sick person. Capsules are swallowed whole with water.

It can be used to treat influenza in children aged 1 or over.

* Paracetamol
The Ministry of Health recommends a supply of paracetamol as well. It will be useful for aches, pains and reducing high temperatures.

* Vaccine
A vaccine that protects against a future influenza pandemic cannot be developed until the pandemic has emerged and it may take up to six months to develop it and make enough for everyone.

Source: Ministry of Health, MedSafe, Roche Pharmaceuticals