01/05/2026
🦠 Flu Season Update from Bartle’s Pharmacy 🦠
With flu cases climbing this season, we’ve had many questions about treatment options and how to protect yourself and your family. Here’s a helpful overview from our pharmacy team:
💊 Flu Antiviral Basics
✔️ There are four FDA-approved antiviral medications used to treat influenza, though the two you’ll hear about most often are Tamiflu® and Xofluza®
✔️ A prescription is required for all flu antivirals
✔️ These medications are most effective when started within the first 48 hours of symptoms—early treatment matters
✔️ Antivirals aren’t necessary for everyone, but they are especially important for individuals at higher risk of complications
🔍 Comparing Common Options
Tamiflu® (oseltamivir):
• Taken twice daily for 5 days
• Widely available as an affordable generic
• More likely to cause stomach-related side effects
Xofluza® (baloxavir):
• Single-dose treatment
• Generally causes less nausea
• Reduces viral spread more quickly
• More expensive and not always readily available
• Not recommended for people who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or immunocompromised
✅ The Bottom Line
Antiviral medications can be very helpful in certain situations—but prevention remains the best defense. Once you’re sick, there’s already some risk involved.
💉 It’s not too late to get your flu shot.
The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone 6 months and older and remains the most effective way to reduce severe illness.
🧼 Additional Ways to Stay Healthy
• Wear a mask when appropriate
• Test if you’re feeling ill
• Wash hands often
• Stay home when sick
• Improve ventilation whenever possible
If you have questions about flu symptoms, treatment options, or vaccines, stop by or call Bartle’s Pharmacy—we’re always here to help keep our community healthy 💙
