When are antivirals used instead of vaccinations?
Antivirals are used for community control of influenza in designated individuals in priority groups to prevent or slow the spread of a disease. They may be used before vaccines become available to control an influenza pandemic. The use of these countermeasures are specified in the Antiviral annex to the state Pandemic Influenza Plan. Further and updated guidance on antiviral use will be provided by DPH during a pandemic. —————————————————————— [1] If a Local Health Director has ordered the vaccination under his own authority, pursuant to 19a-222 of the General Statutes, the person refusing a smallpox vaccination may be fined not more than $5.
