INFLUENZA EXPOSURE
Preventive Antiviral Medication After Exposure
Preventive antiviral medication may be considered for selected close contacts after medical assessment. It is not prescribed routinely to everyone and does not replace vaccination.
Medically reviewed by Koshiro Nishimoto, MD, PhD (Director)Who may be considered
Eligibility is assessed from the type and timing of exposure, age, pregnancy, underlying disease, kidney function, respiratory status and other medication. Product information generally focuses on household or shared-living contacts at higher risk of complications.
Timing and medicines
Treatment should generally start within two days after exposure when prescribed. Oseltamivir is taken by mouth; laninamivir is inhaled. The exact regimen is determined at consultation.
Important limitations
- Protection is limited to the period described for the medicine.
- Medication does not guarantee that influenza will be prevented.
- It does not replace seasonal vaccination or infection-control measures.
- This is a self-pay consultation and prescription.
If symptoms have already started
Fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches or marked fatigue may indicate illness rather than an exposure-only situation. Tell the clinic when symptoms began so that testing and treatment can be considered appropriately.
CONTACT
Questions or appointments
English consultations are available. Please call us if you need help choosing the appropriate service.