A recent study reveals that antiviral medications, recommended for treating children hospitalized with influenza, are not being used enough. This underuse of antivirals is concerning, as these medications can reduce symptoms and prevent complications.
1.Study Details and Findings
The study, titled “Antiviral Use Among Children Hospitalized with Laboratory-Confirmed Influenza Illness,” was published in Clinical Infectious Diseases. It focuses on children hospitalized with confirmed influenza in the United States.
Flu-related illnesses cause about 10% of all pediatric hospitalizations each winter. Medical guidelines suggest that all hospitalized children with suspected or confirmed influenza should receive antiviral treatment. However, the study shows that many children are not getting the treatment they need.
2.Concerning Statistics
The study found that nearly half of hospitalized children with flu did not receive antivirals. Despite strong recommendations from major health organizations like the CDC and the American Academy of Pediatrics, antiviral use remains low. This is alarming because antivirals can shorten the illness and prevent complications like pneumonia or ear infections.
Dr. James Antoon, who co-led the study, explained, “Antiviral use reduces how long children are sick and helps prevent complications.” He emphasized the importance of following the guidelines for better patient outcomes.
3.Details of the Study
The study analyzed data from 1,213 children who were hospitalized with lab-confirmed flu between December 2016 and March 2020. These children were treated at seven pediatric medical centers. Of those with clinical influenza tests, only half received antiviral medications.
Even more concerning, about 37% of infants younger than 6 months—who cannot receive the flu vaccine—did not receive antivirals, even though they are at high risk.
4.Barriers to Antiviral Use
Dr. Antoon stressed that the low use of antivirals shows the need to understand why doctors are not following guidelines. “Improved antiviral treatment is essential for providing the best care for these patients,” he said.
5.Trends in Antiviral Prescriptions
Dr. Natasha Halasa, another researcher in the study, pointed out that antiviral use for hospitalized children has decreased over the years. Data from national surveillance networks show a drop in antiviral treatment from 70%–86% during the 2017-2018 flu season to under 60% in 2023–2024.
Additionally, only 30% of children at higher risk for complications were prescribed antivirals during outpatient visits.
6.The Importance of Antiviral Treatment
Antiviral medications can significantly reduce the severity and duration of flu symptoms. They also lower the risk of serious infections like pneumonia and sinusitis. Studies have shown that antivirals can shorten hospital stays and reduce the need for intensive care.
7.Conclusion and Recommendations
Dr. Antoon calls for more research into improving flu testing and treatment. He also suggests that hospitals should work toward standardizing care for children with the flu. By improving antiviral use, doctors can provide better outcomes for children hospitalized with influenza.
Source:Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Date:Dec 17 2024
Keywords:Antivirals,Influenza,Underuse,Guidelines,Pediatric care,CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
