Tamiflu-Resistant Influenza

Posted by Anthony Lee Jan 9, 2009

The degree of illness from influenza can range from none, particularly with flu vaccinations, to severe, especially for the most susceptible individuals. For people in the latter category, certain antiviral medications are available to treat the flu. One of these drugs is Tamiflu, whose efficacy is notable and makes it a popular choice among physicians.

Unfortunately, influenza has developed resistance to Tamflu. It's the latest example of an unwanted but familiar phenomenon.

In general, bacteria and viruses reproduce very often and, therefore, undergo mutations in their genes. These genetic changes are passed onto the new pathogens. The result is alteration of a structure in the pathogen such that a medication against it no longer works. That's how pathogens develop resistance, a likely event whenever a single medication is used extensively against the pathogen.

In such cases, the medical community must find a new treatment for people who truly need it. At the same time, physicians must be careful not to overuse one antibiotic or antiviral agent. Otherwise, drug resistance makes it tougher to combat infectious diseases.

Let us hope that new options for treating the flu can be developed soon.