Drug that treats flu shows additional benefit of protecting close contacts from infection

**Study Finds Flu Drug Reduces Transmission Risk Among Household Members by 30%**

A single dose of the antiviral medication baloxavir marboxil reduces the likelihood of transmitting influenza to household contacts by approximately 30%, according to findings published in the New England Journal of Medicine. Researchers examined the drug’s effectiveness in preventing secondary infections within families, highlighting its potential role in curbing flu spread among close contacts.

The study evaluated households where at least one member had confirmed influenza and assessed transmission rates among other family members who were administered baloxavir marboxil. Results indicated that those treated with the antiviral experienced a significantly lower risk of contracting the virus compared to untreated individuals. The research underscores baloxavir marboxil’s dual function as both a treatment for active flu cases and a preventive measure against further spread within familial settings.

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Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-04-drug-flu-additional-benefit-contacts.html

Author

Mark Chiang