Cold medicines are displayed at a pharmacy in this file photo. (Yonhap)
SEOUL, May 24 (Korea Bizwire) — Sales of cold medicines in South Korea are increasing as more people contract influenza following the relaxation of social distancing measures implemented during the pandemic.
“Pancold,” a cold medicine manufactured by Dongwha Pharmaceutical Co., recorded sales of 14.7 billion won (US$11.1 million) in the first quarter, marking a 32.4 percent increase compared to the previous year, according to industry sources.
This represents the highest quarterly sales figure ever achieved.
Similarly, “Champ,” a fever reducer produced by Dong-A Pharmaceutical Co., saw sales of 4 billion won during the January-March period, indicating a 66.6 percent year-on-year growth and setting a new quarterly sales record.
Dong-A Pharmaceutical Co.’s “Panpyrin,” an adult cold medicine, also remained popular, with first-quarter sales amounting to 12.4 billion won, similar to last year’s figure of 12.7 billion won.
The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) reported on May 13 that the number of individuals exhibiting influenza symptoms has been increasing for seven consecutive weeks.
An industry source attributed this trend to the use of masks and social distancing measures during the pandemic, which prevented the spread of other respiratory illnesses and subsequently lowered overall immunity.
Consequently, after the pandemic, there has been a surge in the number of people catching colds.
Ashley Song (ashley@koreabizwire.com)
