Recent news on Tamiflu

[pmabraham, BSN, RN]

Good day:

http://www.foxnews.com/health/2014/04/10/millions-dollars-wasted-on-flu-drug-tamiflu-review-finds/

http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/04/10/us-roche-hldg-novartis-search-idUSBREA390EJ20140410

http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2014/04/09/tamiflu-relenza-study/7478287/

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/no-sign-tamiflu-works-well-to-stop-flu-outbreaks-study-2014-04-10?link=MW_latest_news

I just saw the above and a number of other related news articles this morning. Now, I am recently pro vaccination from what I've been learning at school, and I recently did receive the flu vaccination. I'm also encouraging others local to me to get vaccinated.

When I saw the above related articles, my heart sank as there's been a big push concerning the requirement of flu vaccinations as well as looking down on anyone who wants a waiver for whatever reason.

For those in the field -- current LPN's and RN's and the like -- do you know if this type of news will change how hospitals and related facilities think about the Tamiflu vaccination? Do you think this news will have them reconsider making it a requirement for employment, clinicals, education, and the like?

Thank you.

[CrunchRN, ADN, RN]

Tamiflu treats the flu. It is not the vaccine. 2 separate things.

[pmabraham, BSN, RN]

Good day, CrunchRN:

Thank you for your reply. So the flu vaccine does not contain, Tamiflu?

Thank you.

[JustBeachyNurse, LPN]

Correct. That would be like the varicella vaccine containing acyclovir or pertussis containing penicillin

[CrunchRN, ADN, RN]

You got it pmabraham. The vaccine is to prevent flu. Tamiflu is a medication to treat the symptoms and shorten the course of flu if you have the flu.

[pmabraham, BSN, RN]

Got it; thank you both.

[CrunchRN, ADN, RN]

You are welcome.

[chare]

Interesting information though, as we have had many flu positive patients on Tamiflu during this past flu season.

It will definitely be interesting to see if this curbs its use next year.

[applewhitern, BSN, RN]

I remember years and years ago, when my children were still little, Tamiflu was prescribed within the first day of symptoms. The pediatrician said it was useless if not given within the first 24 hours. It's purpose was to "hopefully" reduce the severity of symptoms. Now I see doctors ordering it for everybody with flu symptoms, even if the patient is almost over the flu. I personally wouldn't bother with it.