Core Insights - The flu season of 2025 is reported to be more severe than the past three years, with increased cases of flu-like illnesses (ILI) in both northern and southern China [3][4][12] - There is a notable shortage of flu medications, particularly the children's version of the antiviral drug Marbofloxacin, leading to increased demand and stockouts in pharmacies [4][8][12] - Hospitals remain the primary choice for parents seeking treatment for their children, with a significant increase in pediatric flu patients reported [9][12] Summary by Category Flu Season Severity - The percentage of flu-like illness cases reported by sentinel hospitals in southern provinces was 6.7%, while northern provinces reported 7.0%, both higher than the previous week and the same period in 2022, 2023, and 2024 [3][4] Medication Availability - Pharmacies are experiencing shortages of flu medications, with some lacking the new antiviral drug "Sufuda" (generic name: Marbofloxacin) entirely, while traditional antiviral drugs like Oseltamivir are still available [4][8] - The children's version of Marbofloxacin is particularly in high demand, with reports indicating it is more sought after than other flu medications [8][14] Hospital Preference - Parents express a strong preference for hospitals over pharmacies for flu treatment, citing trust in clinical doctors [9][12] - Roche, the manufacturer of "Sufuda" and "Oseltamivir," has increased supply to hospitals, with the overall supply of "Sufuda" reportedly three times that of the previous year [9][12] Pediatric Medication Insights - Oseltamivir is widely used for children, with a broader age indication compared to Marbofloxacin, which is limited to children aged 5 and above [12][14] - The single-dose administration of Marbofloxacin is appealing to parents, but its availability in hospitals is limited, leading to increased purchases from pharmacies [14][16] Market Dynamics - The market for pediatric single-dose flu medications is expected to become more competitive as several domestic pharmaceutical companies are developing similar products [16] - Recent approvals for new pediatric flu medications are anticipated to challenge the current market dominance of Marbofloxacin in the coming years [16]