However, caregivers should be aware of the vaccine guidelines that come with the vaccines, as occasionally, the guidelines change. Please see the sections below titled "Can novel H1N1 swine flu be prevented with a vaccine?" and the timeline update for the current information on the vaccines.
Two antiviral agents have been reported to help prevent or reduce the effects of swine flu. They are Zanamivir (Relenza) and Oseltamivir (Tamiflu), both of which are also used to prevent or reduce influenza A and B symptoms. These drugs should not be used indiscriminately, because viral resistance to them can and has occurred. Also, they are not recommended if the flu symptoms already have been present for 48 hours or more, although hospitalized patients may still be treated past the 48-hour guideline. Severe infections in some patients may require additional supportive measures such as ventilation support and treatment of other infections like pneumonia that can occur in patients with a severe flu infection. The CDC has suggested in their interim guidelines that pregnant females can be treated with the two antiviral agents.
Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) is an antiviral agent that may prevent or reduce influenza A and B symptoms. Photo courtesy of the CDC
Zanamivir (Relenza) has been reported to help prevent or reduce the effects of swine flu. Photo courtesy of the CDC