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What Is Antiviral Chemoprophylaxis?

Antiviral chemoprophylaxis is a term used to describe the use of antiviral medications to prevent viral infections such as the flu. The technique is sometimes used to protect health workers and others at high risk for virus exposure.

  1. Chemoprophylaxis

    • Merriam-Webster's Medical Dictionary generally defines chemoprophylaxis as the use of chemical agents to prevent cases of infectious disease.

    Risk Groups

    • The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) cite several specific groups of individuals who may need antiviral chemoprophylaxis when dealing with the H1N1 influenza virus. In addition to health care workers and emergency personnel, they include pregnant women and people who have a high risk for flu complications.

    Drug Options

    • Drugs used for antiviral chemoprophylaxis include zanamivir (Relenza) and oseltamivir (Tamiflu), notes the CDC. Tamiflu comes as an oral suspension or tablet, while Relenza comes as an oral inhalant.

    Suitable Candidates

    • The CDC lists suitable candidates for antiviral prophylaxis as those in infectious stages of the flu, those who have been exposed to infectious secretions through coughing or sneezing and those who make direct contact with infected individuals.

    Considerations

    • Individuals who should not receive chemoprophylaxis include those without exposure in the previous 48 hours, those without flu contact during an infectious period and certain healthy groups of children and adults, notes the CDC.

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