A
I can give general NHS-based information, but I cannot give individual medical decisions about a specific child.
Here is what UK guidance generally says about antivirals for influenza in children:
🇬🇧 NHS / NICE general guidance (non-patient specific)
When oseltamivir (Tamiflu) is recommended
NICE and UKHSA recommend offering oseltamivir to children at risk of complications or who have severe/progressive illness, especially if hospitalised, even if more than 48 h since onset.
Indications generally include:
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Confirmed or suspected influenza AND
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Child is severely unwell, has respiratory distress, or requires hospital admission / oxygen, OR
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Child is in a clinical risk group (e.g., chronic lung/heart disease, neurodisability, immunosuppression, age <2 yrs for some guidance).
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For hospitalised children, NICE states clinicians can start oseltamivir even if symptom onset >48 h, because evidence supports benefit in severe disease.
When antivirals may not be needed
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Mild, improving flu.
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Older, otherwise healthy children recovering at home.
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No risk factors and not in hospital.
⚠️ For your situation
A child with LRTI, flu-positive, and needing oxygen would typically fall into the category where UK guidance supports antiviral treatment, but the decision must be made by the responsible clinician, considering:
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Age and weight
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Time since symptom onset
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Severity
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Renal function
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Potential contraindications
🚨 What you should do
If you are a parent/carer → Seek urgent medical care NOW (111, GP, or A&E) and do not start/stop any medication without a clinician.
If you are a clinician → Follow:
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NICE guideline NG103 (antivirals for influenza)
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UKHSA influenza antiviral guidance for primary/secondary care
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Local trust antimicrobial policy (these often state: “All admitted children with confirmed influenza should receive oseltamivir irrespective of duration of symptoms.”)
If you want, I can summarise the exact NICE NG103 criteria or provide a quick dosing reference (non-patient-specific).
