Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the significant increase in flu activity across China, with many provinces experiencing high levels of flu cases, leading to a surge in demand for flu vaccines and antiviral medications [3][4][5]. Vaccine Supply and Demand - Flu vaccine demand has surged, particularly in northern provinces like Beijing, Liaoning, and Shaanxi, with reports of full appointment schedules for vaccinations [5][6]. - While the supply of quadrivalent flu vaccines is stable, there is a noted shortage of innovative vaccines such as nasal spray and subunit vaccines in some areas [5][6]. - The availability of flu vaccines for children aged 6-35 months remains stable, with sufficient stock reported across various community health service centers [5][6]. Antiviral Medication Demand - There has been a dramatic increase in the demand for antiviral medications, with sales figures showing a 22-fold increase in flu medication sales since the onset of the flu season [8][9]. - Specific antiviral products like Oseltamivir and other flu medications have seen sales growth of 4.5 times and 5 times, respectively, in the latest week [9]. - The current flu season is characterized by the predominance of the H3N2 strain, but existing antiviral treatments remain effective against the circulating strains [9][10]. Regulatory Actions - To ensure the stability of antiviral medication supply and pricing, regulatory authorities in various regions, including Beijing and Qinghai, have initiated special inspections to prevent price gouging [10].

Core Insights - The flu season in China has entered a rapid increase phase, with many provinces reaching moderate to high epidemic levels, leading to a significant rise in demand for flu vaccines and antiviral medications [1][4] Group 1: Flu Vaccine Supply and Demand - Flu vaccine and antiviral drug supplies remain stable across multiple regions, with no significant price increases reported, although some innovative and imported vaccines are experiencing temporary shortages [1][2] - There is a notable increase in flu vaccine appointment requests in northern provinces, with four-valent subunit flu vaccines facing tight inventory, while adult flu vaccines are generally available [2][3] Group 2: Targeted Vaccination Initiatives - Beijing has included school students and frontline workers in a free vaccination program, aiming to complete the initiative by the end of the month, with other regions extending vaccination hours for minors [3] Group 3: Antiviral Drug Demand Surge - The demand for antiviral medications has surged, with sales figures showing a 22-fold increase in flu medication transactions since the onset of the flu season, and specific products like Oseltamivir and Favipiravir seeing significant sales growth [4][5] Group 4: Drug Efficacy and Market Regulation - Current antiviral medications remain effective against circulating flu strains, with no evidence of increased virulence in flu viruses; regulatory bodies are actively monitoring and ensuring stable supply and pricing of these medications [5][6]

Core Insights - The discussion highlights the low efficacy of respiratory virus vaccines compared to hepatitis B vaccines, emphasizing the need for improved mucosal immunity research to enhance disease prevention [1][4]. Group 1: Mucosal Immunity - Mucosal immunity serves as the first line of defense against pathogens, utilizing physical barriers and immune functions to protect the body [2]. - Research indicates that mucosal immune responses can trigger a cross-organ response, enhancing overall immunity [2]. - Mucosal immunity is crucial not only for infection prevention but also for managing severe cases of respiratory infections, where inflammation control is vital [2]. Group 2: Research Gaps and Opportunities - There are significant scientific gaps in understanding mucosal immunity compared to other immune organs, which presents an opportunity for new drug and vaccine development [3]. - The activation of mucosal immunity is believed to improve the efficacy of respiratory virus vaccines, with ongoing research showing promising results for nasal spray vaccines [4]. - Current respiratory virus vaccines have limited effectiveness, highlighting the urgent need for a shift in immunization strategies through collaborative research efforts [4]. Group 3: The Role of Basic Research - Basic theoretical research is essential for technological innovation, as current understanding of pathogen interactions with lung epithelium and mucosal immune responses is still limited [5]. - Identifying common mechanisms of pathogen invasion could lead to the development of broad-spectrum emergency vaccines or treatments [6].