Oxford researchers in the British Medical Journal had recently warned against giving Tamiflu doses to children below 12 years of age, as they caused a lot of side effects. Responding to this, Dr Raviraj, Resident Medical Officer, Lakeside Hospital here said, "Initially, we did not give Tamiflu to pediatric patients. However, we have received a bulk stock of Lypholized powder, which is recommended by WHO. The powder contains Tamiflu and needs to mixed with warm water and given to the child."
The dosage depends on the child's body weight and condition. One bottle is assigned for one patient and no side-effects have been noticed yet, he said. Even P N Srinivasachari, Health and Family Welfare commissioner pointed out that Tamiflu was administered only to positive cases. "It is the only treatment available. If we stop or withdraw the treatment , would that not be criminal? Besides, every drug will have some side effect," he said.
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