The management of influenza in people of working age.
Influenza is common, causing considerable morbidity and sickness absence from work in most winters. Influenza vaccines have been available for >40 years, but are not extensively used in the workforce (in the UK). Amantadine has been available for 25 years as a treatment and prophylactic against influenza A infection, but has scarcely been used. In the last 3 years, two neuraminidase inhibitor antivirals, zanamivir and oseltamivir, have been introduced to the market for the treatment and prophylaxis of influenza A and B infections. This review focuses on aspects of prevention and treatment of influenza appropriate to people of working age. Decisions based on the cost-effectiveness of prevention and treatment options differ when viewed from the perspective of the healthcare provider, the employer or the employee. Options currently available need to be directed to a wider range of people than those conventionally regarded as the target risk group.
Fleming
D M
DM
Birmingham Research Unit of the Royal College of General Practitioners, 54 Lordswood Road, Birmingham B17 9DB, UK. Dfleming@rcgpbhamresunit.nhs.uk
D000081:Acetamides / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000547:Amantadine / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D000998:Antiviral Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D006146:Guanidines; D006801:Humans; D007251:Influenza, Human / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000517:prevention & control*; D008875:Middle Aged; D016272:Occupational Health; D053139:Oseltamivir; D011714:Pyrans; D012794:Sialic Acids / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D006113:United Kingdom; D017132:Workplace; D053243:Zanamivir
D000081:Acetamides; D000998:Antiviral Agents; D006146:Guanidines; D011714:Pyrans; D012794:Sialic Acids; D053139:Oseltamivir; D000547:Amantadine; D053243:Zanamivir