Infection Control

Treat suspected patients with antivirals ASAP

Infection Control Weekly Monitor, October 21, 2009

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The CDC released recommendations Sunday advising clinicians to initiate early antiviral treatment on patients with suspected influenza.

The CDC says it is not necessary to wait for laboratory confirmation to begin treatment, and patients with a negative rapid influenza diagnostic test should still be considered for treatment if symptoms indicate a possible infection. The sensitivity of rapid tests varies, and false negatives can occur frequently.

The CDC offers a prioritized list of patients at a higher risk for complications that should be considered for antiviral treatment.



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