WHO Urges Limits on Use of Flu Drug

Not everyone with swine flu should get the medicine Tamiflu (oseltamivir), the World Health Organization (WHO) said August 21. The drug should be saved for those who need it most, WHO said. High-risk groups include children under age 5, pregnant women, people over 65 and those with long-term health problems. WHO said these groups definitely should get the drug, the Associated Press reported. People with severe cases of swine flu also should get it, WHO said. This includes people who have breathing problems, chest pain or severe weakness. The advice is a warning to countries, such as the United Kingdom, that have given the drug out freely. WHO said excess use could help swine flu become resistant to Tamiflu. This would make it useless to those who need it most.