Antiviral influenza drug may also reduce the spread of flu

Embargoed until: Publicly released: 2025-04-24 07:00

International

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A single dose of the antiviral drug baloxavir, which is sold in Australia under the name Xofluza, can help reduce the spread of flu to your close contacts, according to international research. The antiviral drug is used to treat flu symptoms, but this new study has shown it can also help reduce the transmission of the virus. The rate of transmission of the flu virus in people who took baloxavir was 9.5% compared to 13.4% with placebo - a 29% reduction in flu transmission. The authors say that while vaccination will remain the main way to control flu, the availability of an antiviral drug with effects on both illness and transmission is a welcome addition to the overall strategy for influenza control.

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Research Massachusetts Medical Society, Web page Please link to the article in online versions of your report (the URL will go live after the embargo ends).

Editorial / Opinion Massachusetts Medical Society, Web page Please link to the article in online versions of your report (the URL will go live after the embargo ends).

Journal/
conference: New England Journal of Medicine

Research:Paper

Organisation/s: University of Michigan, USA

Funder: Supported by F. Hoffmann–La Roche and with federal funds from the Department of Health and Human Services, the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response, and the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority under Other Transaction number HHSO100201800036C

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