Limitations of current prophylaxis against influenza virus infection.
Avian influenza has been a source of worldwide concern since Hong Kong authorities detected the first outbreak in 1997. Mainly as a result of poultry-to-human transmission, more than 200 cases of infection in humans have been attributed to the A/H5, A/H7, and A/H9 viral subtypes, with a case fatality rate for A/H5N1 infections exceeding 50%. A mutant or reassortant virus capable of efficient human-to-human transmission can set off a pandemic. Increased attention to prophylaxis against viral infection has identified several potentially complementary approaches: nonpharmacologic measures (eg, travel restrictions), vaccination, chemotherapeutic agents, and herbal/natural products. All have significant limitations that point out the need for additional modalities. Herbal/natural products, particularly those based on green tea extract, offer promise as adjuncts or alternatives to current interventions and warrant further evaluation in well-controlled human trials.
Guralnik
Mario
M
Synergy Research, Teaneck, NJ; and 2Quigley Pharma, Doylestown, PA, USA. Mario.guralnik@synergy-cro.com
Rosenbloom
Richard A
RA
Petteruti
Michael P
MP
Lefante
Carolyn
C
D000818:Animals; D000998:Antiviral Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004196:Disease Outbreaks / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006801:Humans; D017589:Immunization Programs / Q000458:organization & administration; D017053:Infection Control / Q000379:methods; D053124:Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype / Q000472:pathogenicity; D007252:Influenza Vaccines / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005585:Influenza in Birds / Q000635:transmission; D007251:Influenza, Human / Q000517:prevention & control*; D008517:Phytotherapy; D028321:Plant Preparations / Q000627:therapeutic use; D011200:Poultry
D000998:Antiviral Agents; D007252:Influenza Vaccines; D028321:Plant Preparations