Explanation: The CDC recommends to start antivirals for flu ASAP regardless of symptom duration in: -patients in the 🏥 -severe illness -high risk for complications. Our patient is > 65 so he is considered high risk and treatment is indicated 💊

Antibiotics will not help illness caused by a virus like influenza. Antibiotics should only be given if a secondary bacterial infection is suspected 🦠 This is more likely if symptoms are prolonged > 10 days, in severe illness, or if a patient initially improves then relapses.

We can’t talk about flu without stressing importance of flu vaccines 💉 In the 🇺🇸 it is recommended EVERYONE > 6 months old get an annual flu vaccine to decrease their risk of getting the flu and risk of severe illness!

Cold and flu season comes with lots of opportunities to practice antimicrobial stewardship! Don’t let the flu trick you into giving unnecessary antibiotics 💊