Avian Influenza Factsheet
Avian (bird) flu – antiviral medicine and signs and symptoms
Why have I been given this medicine?
You have been given a course of antiviral medicine called Oseltamivir (Tamiflu®) because you have come into close contact with poultry/contaminated materials from poultry confirmed to be infected with bird flu. This means that you might have been exposed to the bird flu virus. The risk to your health is low but taking antiviral medicine reduces this risk even further. It will also reduce the risk of you becoming unwell with an ordinary human flu virus, while you are taking the antivirals.
How much should I take?
To work effectively you must take one capsule every day until the course you have been given finishes or until your GP or other health professional tells you to stop.
Can I take this medicine if I am pregnant?
If you are pregnant or are currently breast feeding, please bring this to the attention of the health professional who gave you the medicines, before you start taking them and they will advise you.
What if I have another medical condition?
Please tell the health professional who is providing the antiviral medicines about any medical condition or allergies to medicines.
Does this medicine have side effects?
Not usually and side effects will generally be mild. Side effects have been rarely reported and include nausea and mild stomach ache/upset. Nausea is less likely if the medicine is taken with food.
When should I start taking this medicine?
As soon as you get it.
Does my family need this medicine?
No, only people who are believed to have come into close contact with a bird infected with bird flu need to take the medicine. This is because only people who have handled or have been in very close contact with infected birds are at risk of getting bird flu.
What if I develop symptoms?
If you suddenly develop any of the following symptoms up to 10 days after your last contact with the affected birds or affected [farm/premises] it is important that you contact either your GP or other health professional by telephone as soon as possible. You should refer to this information sheet so they understand why you are taking these medicines
The most important symptoms to look for are:
- high temperature/fever (temperature of 38oC or more)
- cough • shortness of breath
- red, sore and sticky eye
Other symptoms may include:
- body/muscle pain/aches
- sore throat
- runny nose
If you need any further advice or have any of the above symptoms, please contact UKHSA Yorkshire Humber Health Protection Team on 0300 3030234, quoting reference number - CIMS 200273377
Outside office hours you will be put through to our out of hours service and someone will call you back within 30 minutes.