Annual vaccination against influenza A and B viruses is recommended for everyone ≥6 months old without a contraindication.1 Vaccination of all eligible persons can reduce the prevalence of influenza illness and symptoms that might be confused with those of COVID-19. Available vaccines and recommendations for specific patient populations for the 2020-2021 season are listed in Tables 2 and 3. Lower rates of influenza illness have been observed this season in the Southern Hemisphere, probably because of masking, social distancing, school closures, and travel restrictions.2

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Remdesivir (Veklury – Gilead), an investigational antiviral drug administered by IV infusion, is available through an FDA Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for treatment of COVID-19 in hospitalized patients. An earlier EUA limited use of the drug to patients hospitalized with severe disease.1

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