Therapy Analysis - Influenza
Caution for the future
The relative frequency of seasonal influenza means it is easy to remain apathetic about the risk posed by this common virus. However, the devastating 'flu pandemic of 1918 remains one of the most deadly in recorded history. The recent rise in instances of mutated influenza strains such as avian 'flu, and more recently swine 'flu, serve as a stark warning that the risk from influenza viruses may be on the increase. While the latest outbreak of swine 'flu appears to have peaked, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently pointed out that the 1918 pandemic was itself preceded by a milder spring outbreak, and warned of a possible 'intense experience' in the coming autumn. For now, marketed antiviral drugs appear to be effective; however, given the high virulence and mutation potential of novel strains, coupled with the gap in newer therapeutic options, the risk to public heath from influenza remains as real as ever.
Jonathan Stephens
Pharmaprojects Analyst
Pharmaprojects - Pharmaceutical Research & Development Pipeline Intelligence
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