" ATLANTA, Feb. 15 -- As seasonal influenza activity continues...

" ATLANTA, Feb. 15 -- As seasonal influenza activity continues to increase, the CDC is monitoring a rise in resistance to oseltamivir (Tamiflu), an agency spokesman said.

But the increase in resistance is not worrisome enough that the agency is considering altering its recommendations about the use of the antiviral medication, according to Joe Bresee, M.D., of the CDC's influenza division.

Resistance is "higher than we've seen in the past and we think it is a real increase," Dr. Bresee said in a telephone press conference.

Of 350 influenza isolates tested this season, 16 (4.6%) were resistant to the antiviral medication, Dr. Bresee said, adding that all of the resistance is among H1NI influenza A virus, where it accounts for 8.1% of isolates tested -- up from 0.7% last flu season.

"We're certainly monitoring it very closely," he said. But he added that the rate of resistance remains low and "we're not concerned enough that we would recommend different guidelines.""


http://www.medpagetoday.com/InfectiousDisease/URItheFlu/tb/8385


It's only a matter of time before Relenza is the recommended antiviral, Tamiflu resistance is only headed in one direction, should give the share price a real kick.