The Effectiveness of a Combination Therapy in Treating Severe Influenza: Hypothesis on The Efficacy of Hydroxychloroquine Combined with A Macrolide and Potentially Natural Therapies

Author(s): Alexis Lacout, Jean-Pierre Tournier, Martin Zizi, Christian Perronne

The influenza virus is the source of annual epidemics that pose significant public health challenges, leading to substantial morbidity and potentially high mortality, particularly among the elderly and individuals with risk factors. The severity of these impacts varies from year to year. Currently, the primary method of combating the influenza virus is vaccination, which has demonstrated variable effectiveness depending on the circulating serotype. Additionally, the pneumococcal vaccine plays a role in preventing bacterial superinfections, which can complicate cases of influenza. It seems increasingly important to revisit the possibility of curative treatments. At present, oseltamivir is the main pharmacological options available. We hypothesize that hydroxychloroquine, in combination with macrolides and potentially natural therapies (e.g., Elderberry (Sambucus nigra)), could be beneficial due to their mechanisms of action. These drug therapies might significantly reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with influenza when administrated art the early phase of the disease. Further research and exploration of such integrated approaches are warranted to better address the public health burden of influenza.