FDA Just Approved First New Flu Treatment In 20 Years

According to CNBC.com, the Food and Drug Administration has approved Xofluza, the first new antiviral flu treatment in nearly 20 years.

Genentech's Xofluza, baloxavir marboxil, is meant to treat acute uncomplicated influenza in patients 12 years and older who have had symptoms for no more than 48 hours. Genentech is a unit of Roche, which produces Tamiflu, a commonly used flu treatment.

The single-dose treatment will be available across the U.S. in the coming weeks. It will cost $150 but may be available to some patients with commercial insurance for $30, he added.

While the drug can treat the flu, the FDA in approving the drug reminds people that it is not a replacement for the flu vaccine. The CDC recommends getting vaccinated by the end of October.