New antiviral compound proves promising against bird flu

A virologist at the University of Wisconsin-Madison says he's found a new compound that appears to be an extremely promising antiviral for the prevention and treatment of bird flu. And it could prove to be an effective alternative to currently used antivirals like Tamiflu.

Yoshihiro Kawaoka and an international team of experts say that a single intranasal dose of CS-8958 two hours after bird flu infection worked better than a five-day course of Tamiflu in producing lower virus levels and higher survival rates. The compound also prevented infection when provided seven days ahead of exposure. 

"This compound requires only a single administration for both treatment and prophylaxis. Such prophylaxis would be highly desirable for seasonal influenza as well as a potential pandemic situation," Kawaoka adds. "CS-8958 is highly effective for the treatment and prophylaxis of infection with H5N1 influenza viruses, including oseltamivir-resistant mutants."

- here's the report from the University of Wisconsin-Madison

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