Baloxavir marboxil for reducing direct transmission of influenza

Baloxavir marboxil is in clinical development for reducing direct transmission of influenza.
Influenza commonly known as flu is an infection of the nose, throat, and lungs, which are a part
of the respiratory system. There are three types of viruses that cause influenza; type A, B and C.
Type A and B influenza viruses cause the main outbreaks of flu each year. Flu is very infectious
and easily spread to other people. It is usually transmitted to others within the first five days of
infection. It is spread by germs from cough and sneezes, which can live on hands and surfaces for
24 hours. Households and other close contact settings are important sites for the transmission of
influenza virus. The most common symptoms of flu are fever, chills, headache, aches and pains in
the joints and muscles, and extreme tiredness. Most cases of flu will resolve within three to seven
days. However, flu can be more severe in those who are older, in children and in people with long
term health conditions, such as heart disease, asthma or diabetes. There are currently no
approved treatments proven to reduce influenza transmission.