At present, human vaccines against the H5N1 and H7N9 strains are not available. For the prophylaxis and treatment of avian influenza, however, M2 antiviral inhibitors (eg amantadine and rimantadine) and neuraminidase inhibitors (oseltamivir and zanamivir) are available.
To be effective, antivirals must be taken within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms, after consulting a doctor. The seasonal flu vaccine does not offer specific protection against avian influenza, but may reduce the risk of co-infection in the same individual.
