Influenza antiviral therapy should be
administered as soon as possible to children with moderate
to severe CAP consistent with influenza virus infection during
widespread local circulation of influenza viruses, particularly
for those with clinically worsening disease documented at the
time of an outpatient visit. Because early antiviral treatment has
been shown to provide maximal benefit, treatment should not be
delayed until confirmation of positive influenza test results.
Negative results of influenza diagnostic tests, especially rapid
antigen tests, do not conclusively exclude influenza disease.
Treatment after 48 hours of symptomatic infection may still
provide clinical benefit to those with more severe disease.