What is the difference between a vaccine and an antiviral?

Answer:

Vaccines are usually given as a preventive measure. Currently available viral vaccines are usually made from either killed virus or weakened versions of the live virus or pieces of the virus that stimulate an immune response to the virus. When immunized, the body is then poised to fight or prevent infection more effectively.

Antivirals are drugs that may be given to help prevent viral infections or to treat people who have been infected by a virus. When given to treat people who have been infected, antiviral medications may help limit the impact of some symptoms and reduce the potential for serious complications, especially for people who are in high risk groups.

Related Vaccine Questions

• Does the current seasonal influenza vaccine protect me from avian influenza?
• Why won't the annual flu vaccine protect people against pandemic influenza?
• Where can I find a seasonal flu shot?
• How much time does it take to develop and produce an influenza vaccine?
• How many influenza vaccine manufacturers have production facilities in the United States?
• How will vaccine be distributed if a pandemic breaks out?
• 
  
• Frequent Questions Home

Last Updated: 03/22/2007