Q: Tell us about your flu study involving 1,000 nursing homes.
A: We are examining if the antiviral medication baloxavir (Xofluza) is non-inferior to, i.e., at least as good as, oseltamivir (Tamiflu) to limit outbreaks of influenza. Each nursing home will be given a kit containing baloxavir or oseltamivir. When an index case of influenza-like illness occurs, the home will ‘activate’ the kit and administer it to all residents in that ward or facility, at the discretion of the facility. The primary outcome will be the number of lab-confirmed influenza cases. In other words, does using baloxavir early in an outbreak prevent at least as many subsequent cases of influenza as using oseltamivir?
Q:How could the results influence future patient care?
A: If nursing homes suspect an outbreak of influenza … the typical response is to administer oseltamivir prophylactically to all residents. Oseltamivir must be given every day for up to two weeks and requires monitoring renal function. Baloxavir, if effective for prophylaxis, only needs a single dose and has simpler dosing recommendations. If we show baloxavir is non-inferior but more convenient to use, it may become an attractive alternative.
Q:Is enrollment ongoing?
A: Our study timeline goes until the end of 2023, but we hope to complete enrollment before the next influenza season. See join.nhflurx.com for more information
From the November 2021 Issue of McKnight's Long-Term Care News
