Patient care - antivirals

Antiviral medicines are used for the prevention and treatment of severe illness due to influenza virus infection. Antiviral medicines are the sole influenza-specific medical intervention during the early phase of an influenza pandemic before vaccines become available, thus they play an important role. WHO provides information on the clinical use of antivirals, the role of antivirals in pandemic preparedness and planning and monitors the effectiveness of antivirals. In addition, we facilitate equitable and affordable antivirals in low income countries by developing estimates of gaps and needs and foster influenza research on antivirals to improve their public health use.