Hurricane Helene Disrupts IV Fluid Supply, Delaying Surgeries Nationwide

Baxter International's North Carolina plant closure leads to significant shortages, prompting conservation efforts and import strategies.

Baxter International's North Cove facility, responsible for 60% of U.S. IV fluid production, remains closed due to hurricane damage.
Hospitals are postponing non-emergency surgeries and using alternative hydration methods to conserve limited IV supplies.
The FDA has approved the import of IV fluids from Baxter's international plants to mitigate the shortage.
B. Braun Medical is increasing production at unaffected facilities in California and Florida to help fill the gap.
Experts emphasize the need for policy changes to prevent future shortages by allowing reciprocal drug approvals from trusted international markets.