Are drugs available for prevention (prophylaxis) and treatment?
Two licensed modern virus inhibitors (neuraminidase inhibitors) exist: oseltamivir (Tamiflu®) and zanamivir (Relenza®) exist. Both have demonstrated, under laboratory conditions, to be effective against the current A(H5N1) virus. They reduce spreading of the virus and help to diminish the symptoms of influenza. In many European countries the national government already have a stock of these drugs and have placed orders to ensure sufficient quantities.
