The Health Ministry says the antiviral medication Tamiflu, used in the treatment of the H1N1 Influenza A virus, is to be made available at all pharmacies across the island.
The medication was previously only available through hospital pharmacies. But following an increase in the number of influenza cases, a decision was made to allow pharmaceutical distributor to import Tamiflu.
The drug is only used to treat symptoms in severely affected patients and does not prevent illness.Acting Chef Medical Officer Dr. Winston De La Haye, says persons will need a prescription to access the drug.
He adds that the Health Ministry will be providing doctors with treatment guidelines as not every patient should be recommended to receive the drug.
Influenza is a viral respiratory illness that presents with symptoms including fever, sore throat, cough, stuffy nose, headache and body aches and fatigue.
Influenza viruses are mainly spread from person to person through droplets produced while coughing or sneezing or by persons touching
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