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]

Core Viewpoint - The flu season of 2025 is reported to be more severe than in the past three years, with increased cases of flu-like illnesses (ILI) across both northern and southern regions of China, leading to a shortage of specific flu medications, particularly for children [1][3][11]. Summary by Sections Flu Season Severity - The latest report from the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that from November 10 to 16, 2025, the ILI percentage in southern provinces was 6.7% and in northern provinces was 7.0%, both higher than the previous week and the same period in 2022, 2023, and 2024 [3][11]. Medication Shortages - Many pharmacies are experiencing shortages of flu medications, particularly the children's version of the antiviral drug "速福达" (Mabalaoshuwei). Traditional antiviral drugs like Oseltamivir are still available but are also in high demand [3][9][11]. - A pharmacy reported that Oseltamivir has been out of stock for over two weeks, with expectations for new supplies to arrive soon, while "速福达" is not expected to be restocked [9][11]. Hospital Preference - Parents prefer hospitals for flu treatment over pharmacies, as they trust clinical doctors more. The original manufacturers of "速福达" and Oseltamivir are ensuring a broad supply to hospitals across the country [10][11]. - Clinical demand for children's flu medications is increasing, with doctors noting that while there are no supply issues for Oseltamivir and Mabalaoshuwei, delivery disruptions can occur due to high demand [11][12]. Drug Efficacy and Usage - Oseltamivir is suitable for children aged 1 year and older, while Mabalaoshuwei is effective for children aged 5 to 12, with the latter being a single-dose oral medication, making it more convenient for parents [11][13]. - The latest guidelines indicate that flu medications are essential for treatment, as common cold medications do not replace antiviral drugs [12][13]. Market Dynamics - The market for children's single-dose flu medications is expected to become more competitive as several domestic pharmaceutical companies are developing similar products, which may challenge the current dominance of "速福达" [16][17]. - Recent approvals for new antiviral drugs targeting children are underway, with a focus on single-dose formulations, which could expand treatment options for pediatric patients [16][17].