In 2018/19, the flu season took more than 61,000 lives, says
Marla Ahlgrimm. This high number of fatalities was largely concentrated in geriatric and pediatric patients. However, the death toll could have been significantly higher if not for Tamiflu and other antiviral medications designed specifically to target the flu virus. And soon, Tamiflu may become an over-the-counter medication.
According to Marla Ahlgrimm, Tamiflu manufacturer Sanofi recently signed an agreement with Roche Pharmaceuticals to release the drug as an over-thhundreds of thousands of individuals expe-counter medication. This measure would potentially provide access to this drug osed to the flu virus each year. People without insurance or those who cannot afford their co-pays would no longer require a trip to the doctor.to
If you are a patient, Marla Ahlgrimm says it is important to remember that this antiviral medication is not a substitute for the flu shot. The flu shot works to build your immunity, whereas the antiviral attacks the virus. It’s also important to remember that you can still get the flu and use the antiviral even if you have had a flu shot. It is more likely that you will have a milder illness after the flu shot, and the antiviral can get you through it a bit quicker.
Marla Ahlgrimm explains that more than 31 million people come down with the flu every year. Unfortunately, only about seven million seek out or are prescribed an antiviral medication to treat the flu. Turning this prescription into an over-the-counter drug makes it considerably more accessible and ostensibly more affordable to the people that need it most.
Considering not getting the flu shot? Marla Ahlgrimm recommends speaking with your healthcare professional as only a very few individuals are advised against it.
