Prevention options for acute respiratory viral infections, influenza, and COVID-19 in outpatient practice

Background. The etiology of acute respiratory viral infections is quite diverse, including influenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus, adenovirus, seasonal coronaviruses, bocavirus, rhino- and metavirus, and parainfluenza virus. The frequency of mixed infections is quite high: according to various sources, viral coinfection accounts for approximately 30%, bacterial coinfection up to 20%, and fungal coinfection up to 8%. The development of coinfections significantly complicates the course of the infection, increasing the risk of death. Severe illness and death are more common with influenza, COVID-19, adenovirus, and respiratory syncytial virus infections. According to current clinical guidelines, treatment of patients with acute respiratory viral infections should be aimed not only at achieving a full and lasting recovery but also at preventing potential complications. Therapeutic tactics for acute respiratory viral infections, as a rule, include etiotropic, pathogenetic and symptomatic treatment; the use of agents with indirect antiviral and immunomodulatory effects may also be recommended.
Results. This review article focuses on the prevention of acute respiratory viral infections, influenza, and COVID-19 in outpatient practice, with a focus on high-risk patients. It examines the mechanisms of complication development in the most vulnerable populations, including pregnant women and the elderly, as well as the characteristics of their immune response. The potential of interferon therapy as a preventive measure is discussed. Particular attention is paid to the use of recombinant interferon alpha-2b in various pharmacological forms, its antiviral and immunomodulatory effects, as well as its clinical efficacy and safety in outpatient practice. The importance of a comprehensive strategy combining vaccination, non-specific protective measures, and the use of interferon-containing drugs for the effective protection and treatment of high-risk patients is emphasized.
Conclusion. The data presented in the article indicate that interferon alfa-2b with antioxidants is appropriate for use in high-risk patients to reduce the incidence and severity of respiratory viral infections, as well as to prevent complications and adverse outcomes.

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