A method of treating viral infections by the administration of a halogenated benzamide derivative according to formula (III): in which R1 is a halogen atom, and R2-R6 are independently hydrogen, hydroxyl, C1-C4 alkyl, —C1-C4 alkoxy, acyloxy, nitro, halogen, —C(O)R7 where R7 is —C1-C4 alkyl, or, aromatic including salts and hydrates of these compounds.