The World Health Organization (WHO) has released updated guidelines for the care of patients with influenza, providing healthcare providers with evidence-based recommendations to manage influenza virus infections.
The guidelines, designed for healthcare providers, policymakers, and others involved in epidemic and pandemic preparedness, aim to reduce the impact of seasonal and pandemic influenza.
According to WHO, seasonal influenza affects approximately 1 billion people annually, resulting in 3-5 million cases of severe respiratory illness and 290,000-650,000 deaths worldwide.
The updated guidelines address the use of antiviral medications and other treatments, such as steroids for immune system regulation. They apply to patients with seasonal influenza viruses, potential pandemic influenza viruses, and new influenza type A viruses that cause severe illness.
A team of experts, clinicians, patients, ethicists, and methodologists developed the recommendations using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach.
“These updated guidelines are a crucial part of WHO’s response to influenza,” said a WHO spokesperson. “They will help healthcare providers provide optimal care for patients with influenza and support global efforts to prevent and respond to influenza epidemics and pandemics.”
The guidelines complement WHO’s Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS) and the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) framework, which addresses gaps in access to effective medical therapies and other tools.
Key Recommendations:
– Use of antiviral medications for treatment and prevention
– Immune system regulation with steroids
– Management of severe respiratory illness
– Pandemic preparedness and response
WHO’s Influenza Response:
– Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS)
– Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) framework
– Updated guidelines for healthcare providers
