Hurricane Helene Causes National IV Fluid Shortage

A nationwide shortage of IV fluids is impacting hospitals across the U.S. due to the shutdown of Baxter International's North Carolina plant, which produces 60% of these essential supplies. The facility was closed following flooding caused by Hurricane Helene, leading to postponed non-emergency surgeries as hospitals conserve their remaining supplies for emergencies. Some health systems are resorting to alternative hydration methods, such as providing patients with Gatorade or water instead of IVs. The federal government is actively working to mitigate the shortage by importing fluids from international Baxter facilities and allowing pharmacies to produce certain IV medications. Experts express cautious optimism for improvement, although they acknowledge that restoring full supply levels will take time. Hospitals are under pressure to manage their resources as they anticipate increased patient volumes during the cold and flu season.