Baloxavir marboxil, an oral one-dose, one-time treatment for influenza, could serve, in addition to its use in seasonal influenza, as a valuable tool in pandemic preparedness in the event of a novel and highly virulent influenza strain. As a drug in a new class of antiviral treatment for influenza, it could provide an additional layer of defense and an option against viruses resistant to existing antivirals. Additionally, it could be critical during the early phase of a possible influenza pandemic, when vaccines may not yet be available and could also be used alongside or as an alternative to vaccines to mitigate possible challenges with vaccines distribution and use.