isirv

The isirv Antiviral Group (isirv-AVG) is a Special Interest Group of isirv and as such the Group’s status, as an independent professional scientific body, and the rules governing its activities are those pertaining to isirv.  It was established following the merger in April 2011 of the former Neuraminidase Inhibitor Susceptibility Network (NISN) with isirv.

The mission of the Group encompasses that of isirv in promoting understanding of the means of prevention, treatment and control of influenza and other respiratory virus diseases.

In addition to their use in reducing the impact of influenza epidemics, and in the treatment of severe disease, antivirals provide the first line of defence in an influenza pandemic, prior to the availability of vaccines, as in 2009.

The AVG’s specific objectives are to promote understanding of the clinical use of antivirals against respiratory viruses, collate and provide up to date information on the emergence of antiviral resistance, and communicate expert commentary on preclinical and clinical development of potential novel/new antivirals (in this area).  These activities build on the NISN initiatives in global monitoring of resistance to the Neuraminidase Inhibitor (NAI) class of antivirals, previously supported by grants from GlaxoSmithKline and Roche, to address public health and regulatory concerns regarding the potential emergence and consequences of NAI-resistant influenza viruses.

Principal activities and areas of interest of the AVG are listed under members’ interests.

A panel of influenza viruses resistant to neuraminidase inhibitors is available from isirv-AVG.

Meetings

The intention is to organise one international meeting each year. Initially the topics have had a regional focus.  

The first conference on Influenza Antivirals: Efficacy and Resistance, with a focus on Latin America, was held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, 8-10 November 2011, and was co-organised with the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ).