WKU News

Tamiflu Not as Effective This Year

Site Admin
Tuesday, January 20th, 2009

There has been recent news that Tamiflu, the most prescribed medication for treatment and prevention of Influenza, has become less effective for some types of flu infections. This makes vaccination all the more important; especially since this season's vaccine formula has been very effective against the current strains. Three strains of Influenza A and one of Influenza B are incorporated into the vaccine for the strains expected to be most prevalent during the flu season. These decisions are made months in advance of the actual flu season so vaccine production can begin with enough time to have it ready by the time flu season starts. This year's prediction has been quite accurate so far; thus, immunization should be an effective way to reduce the chances of being infected with Influenza. With the reduction in the effectiveness of Tamiflu, prevention is all the more important.

It is still not too late to get your flu shot since flu season generally lasts into March and April. As of Thursday, the 15th of January 2009, WKU Health Services has about 170 doses of Influenza vaccine remaining in stock. Please call or drop by if you have not had your flu shot and you wish to be vaccinated. {cms_selflink page="flu-shots" text="Please see our Flu Shot Information page for further information."}