Biden Utilizes Defense Production Act to Tackle IV Fluid Shortage

The North Carolina Baxter plant, responsible for 60% of U.S. IV solutions, resumes partial production after Hurricane Helene disruptions.

Baxter's North Carolina facility, which produces a significant portion of the nation's IV fluids, was shut down due to flooding from Hurricane Helene.
President Biden invoked the Defense Production Act to expedite repairs and restart production at the damaged plant.
Despite partial resumption, hospitals continue to face shortages, leading to postponed surgeries and alternative hydration methods for patients.
Temporary measures include importing IV solutions from international Baxter facilities and increasing production at other U.S. sites.
Florida senators have urged further use of the Defense Production Act to support smaller domestic manufacturers and extend the shelf life of existing supplies.