Influenza

Consider Infectious Diseases consultation for severe illness, age < 12 months and immunocompromised patients.

Clinicians should start antiviral treatment as soon as possible for adults and children with documented or suspected influenza, irrespective of influenza vaccination history, who meet the following criteria:
1. Persons of any age who are hospitalized with influenza, regardless of illness duration prior to hospitalization.
2. Outpatients of any age with severe or progressive illness, regardless of illness duration.
3. Outpatients who are at high risk of complications from influenza, including those with chronic medical conditions and immunocompromised patients.
4. Children younger than 2 years and adults ≥65 years.
5. Pregnant women and those within 2 weeks postpartum.

Clinicians can consider antiviral treatment for adults and children who are not at high risk of influenza complications, with documented or suspected influenza, irrespective of influenza vaccination history, who are either:
1. Outpatients with illness onset ≤2 days before presentation
2. Symptomatic outpatients who are household contacts of persons who are at high risk of developing complications from influenza, particularly those who are severely immunocompromised.
3. Symptomatic healthcare providers who care for patients who are at high risk of developing complications from influenza, particularly those who are severely immunocompromised.

If Influenza PCR is negative, treatment should be discontinued immediately.