Respiratory syncytial virus, the flu, and COVID-19 are just a few of the many respiratory illnesses known to cause symptoms like cough, fever, sore throat, and congestion. Many people who acquire respiratory viruses recover fully, but vulnerable individuals can become extremely ill. In this case, treatment is often necessary.
While effective, antiviral medications do come with some risks. Along with side effects like fatigue, diarrhoea, and rash, prolonged use or misuse of antivirals can also lead to antiviral resistance. When the body becomes resistant to common antiviral medications, stronger drugs that carry more serious side effects will be needed to fight future infections. As a result, treatment is typically reserved for people with the following risk factors:
If you are concerned about your risk when it comes to respiratory viral diseases, reach out to your doctor to discuss antiviral treatment. They can weigh the benefits against possible downsides to determine whether this treatment is right for you.