Resistant flu strain identified

The North Dakota Department of Health has identified the strain of influenza that is resistant to a common treatment called oseltamivir (better known as Tamiflu), according to Michelle Feist, influenza surveillance coordinator with the DOH.

“Tests conducted at our lab confirmed that this flu strain taken from a North Dakota resident was an influenza A H1 strain, and further testing performed at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention showed it was resistant to the antiviral commonly called Tamiflu,” Feist said. “As a result, the department has added information to its Web site that includes state and nationwide influenza antiviral resistance data, along with information for the public and health-care providers. That information can be found at www.ndflu.com”

Tests completed have shown that this common strain of the flu, known as type A H1N1, is becoming resistant to Tamiflu. Data shows that of the flu viruses tested, 98 percent could not be treated with the antiviral Tamiflu. Alternate treatment is available and patients should discuss these options with their health-care provider.

“Of course, preventing the flu is always better than trying to treat it,” Feist said. “The flu season is just beginning, so it is not too late to be vaccinated.”

So far this season, 94 cases of influenza have been reported in North Dakota.

For information, contact Feist or Tracy Miller at 701-328-2378 or visit www.ndflu.com Reported influenza case numbers will be updated every Wednesday on the Web site.

Tags: fle, influenza, drug, resistance, news