Hurricane Helene Intensifies U.S. IV Fluid Shortage

The nationwide shortage of intravenous (IV) fluids has been exacerbated by Hurricane Helene, which caused significant damage to Baxter International's North Carolina facility, the largest supplier of IV fluids in the U.S., responsible for 60% of the country's supply. This shortage has led hospitals in states such as Minnesota, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Missouri, and South Carolina to prioritize emergency cases and postpone non-emergency surgeries. Healthcare facilities are using conservation strategies like oral hydration and alternative medication delivery methods to manage supplies. The FDA is considering allowing imports to alleviate the shortage, while Baxter increases production at other facilities. Some hospitals, like the University of Kansas Health System and MD Anderson Cancer Center, report no immediate impact on patient care but are actively seeking alternative suppliers. The situation highlights the vulnerability of the medical supply chain and the need for resilience and adaptability in healthcare.