Antiviral Treatment

People infected with Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 in Australia have had mild disease in most cases and recovered after a few days resting at home.

During the current pandemic priority use for influenza antiviral medication is to treat people with severe influenza illness and those who are at higher risk of severe complications, such as those with underlying chronic medical conditions.

The two common influenza antiviral medications are oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and zanamivir (Relenza). Tamiflu and Relenza, are Prescription Only medicines.

While these medications do not cure the infection they may help people:

  • have a milder illness
  • feel better faster; and
  • prevent sever complications.
They should be taken as soon as possible, ideally within 48 hours of symptoms starting.