Although the H1N1 flu pandemic is certainly a genuine public health concern, balance appears lacking in how the media are disseminating information about its effects and measures to prevent and treat it.
In the latter category, in "Should you get the H1N1 vaccine?" (Nov. 4) Drs. Lilah Rossi and Jane Hailey stated that "Tamiflu is an antiviral that is safe for everyone, including pregnant women."
While Tamiflu is an effective antiviral medication, not all affected patients should be taking it. Guidelines are in place. The drug's makers state unequivocally that it is "normally not recommended for use during pregnancy or nursing, as the effects on the unborn child or nursing infant are unknown." See Tamiflu.com/sideeffects.aspx.)
Before taking Tamiflu, pregnant patients need to talk to their doctors. The same goes for patients with kidney or liver diseases. Also, Tamiflu is not indicated for children younger than one year.
In the latter category, in "Should you get the H1N1 vaccine?" (Nov. 4) Drs. Lilah Rossi and Jane Hailey stated that "Tamiflu is an antiviral that is safe for everyone, including pregnant women."
While Tamiflu is an effective antiviral medication, not all affected patients should be taking it. Guidelines are in place. The drug's makers state unequivocally that it is "normally not recommended for use during pregnancy or nursing, as the effects on the unborn child or nursing infant are unknown." See Tamiflu.com/sideeffects.aspx.)
Before taking Tamiflu, pregnant patients need to talk to their doctors. The same goes for patients with kidney or liver diseases. Also, Tamiflu is not indicated for children younger than one year.
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