Medical guidance on influenza A antiviral usage

Medical experts advise that not all individuals infected with influenza A require antiviral medication. While most patients experience mild symptoms and recover within a week, certain high-risk groups may face severe complications such as pneumonia or respiratory failure.

According to Dr. Nguyen Nguyen Huyen of the National Hospital for Tropical Diseases, high-risk groups who may benefit from early antiviral treatment include children under five, adults over 65, and individuals with chronic underlying conditions like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or chronic lung disease. Other vulnerable populations include immunocompromised individuals, pregnant women, and those with severe obesity.

Doctors recommend that high-risk patients may be prescribed antivirals based on clinical suspicion before laboratory results are confirmed to avoid missing the optimal treatment window. Experts warn against self-medicating with antivirals like oseltamivir, noting that these drugs target the virus specifically and are not substitutes for fever reducers or general symptom management.