“Antiviral” refers to a class of medications designed to inhibit the replication of viruses within the human body. Unlike antibiotics, antivirals target specific stages of a virus’s life cycle—blocking entry into cells, preventing genome replication, or halting assembly of new viral particles. Common examples include Acyclovir for herpes, Oseltamivir for influenza, and Remdesivir for COVID-19.
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Fever & Chills: Often the first sign of viral illness
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Respiratory: Cough, sore throat, nasal congestion (influenza, COVID-19)
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Dermatologic: Cold sores or shingles blisters (herpes simplex, VZV)
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Gastrointestinal: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea (norovirus, rotavirus, hepatitis)
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Systemic: Fatigue, body aches, headaches
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Direct Contact: Person-to-person via respiratory droplets or skin lesions
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Ingestion: Contaminated food or water (hepatitis A, enteroviruses)
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Vector-Borne: Mosquitoes or ticks (dengue, Zika)
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Bloodborne: Needlestick injuries or transfusions (hepatitis B/C, HIV)
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Vertical Transmission: Mother to child during birth or breastfeeding (HIV, CMV)
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Stress & Fatigue: Can reactivate latent viruses like HSV or VZV
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Immunosuppression: Chemotherapy, steroids, HIV infection
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Seasonal Changes: Cooler, drier months favor respiratory viruses
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Co-infections: Concurrent illnesses that weaken immunity
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Environmental Exposure: Crowded or poorly ventilated spaces
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Clinical Evaluation: Symptom history and physical exam
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Laboratory Tests:
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PCR & NAAT: Detect viral genetic material (e.g., SARS-CoV-2, influenza)
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Antigen Tests: Rapid detection of viral proteins
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Serology: Antibody titers indicating past or current infection
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Imaging: Chest X-ray/CT for complications in respiratory infections
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Specialized Assays: Liver function tests for hepatitis, CD4 count for HIV
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Nucleoside Analogues:
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Acyclovir, Valacyclovir, Famciclovir for herpesvirus infections
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Neuraminidase Inhibitors:
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Oseltamivir, Zanamivir for influenza A & B
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RNA Polymerase Inhibitors:
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Remdesivir, Favipiravir for COVID-19 and other emerging viruses
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Protease Inhibitors & Entry Inhibitors:
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Used in HIV therapy (e.g., Ritonavir, Maraviroc)
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Hepatitis-Specific Agents:
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Sofosbuvir, Ledipasvir for Hepatitis C; Tenofovir, Entecavir for Hepatitis B
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Supportive Care: Antipyretics, hydration, rest, and monitoring for complications
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Q1: How soon should antivirals be started?
A: Most—for example, Oseltamivir or Acyclovir—are most effective when begun within 48 hours of symptom onset.
Q2: Can antivirals prevent infection?
A: Some (like oseltamivir) may be used prophylactically during outbreaks; others treat only active infections.
Q3: Are there side effects?
A: Common ones include nausea, headache, and occasionally kidney or liver function changes—monitor labs per prescribing information.
Q4: Do antivirals cure viral infections?
A: They suppress viral replication and reduce severity but may not eradicate latent viruses (e.g., herpes).
Q5: How can I reduce the risk of resistance?
A: Take full prescribed courses, avoid unnecessary use, and follow up with your healthcare provider for monitoring.