Are antiviral drugs used for treatment of pandemic (H1N1) 2009 infection?
Yes, two antiviral drugs are being used to treat pandemic influenza infections. These are oseltamivir and zanamivir, which both block the action of an influenza virus protein called neuraminidase. In clinical trials with seasonal influenza, these antiviral drugs have been shown to reduce the symptoms and duration of illness. Direct reports and observations from clinicians around the world also suggest that these treatments contribute to preventing severe disease and death related to pandemic influenza (H1N1) 2009 infections.
