Recognizing this important need, Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota ran a series of newspaper ads and issued a news release strongly urging people to get the influenza vaccine. Antiviral drugs also may have played a role in reducing inappropriate antibiotic use. Two new antiviral medications appeared on the market this year. The drugs, known as neuraminidase inhibitors, are scientifically interesting but have only been shown to reduce symptoms by 24 to 36 hours. In addition, these expensive drugs must be taken within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms.
Scientists question whether they are worth the expense.
Another important tool fighting the problem of antibiotic resistance is developing and disseminating practical public health messages to the medical community and the public about the scope of the antibiotic resistance problem and the prudent use of antibiotics. Mary Kuzel, Pharm. D. and Rob Nelson, Pharm. So far the campaign, which started in November 1999 and will end in May 2000, has used billboards, six different radio spots and a television commercial to deliver its message. The issues of antibiotic resistance are multifaceted, complex and serious.