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Hurricane Helene Disrupts IV Fluid Supply, Closes Baxter Facility, Raises Prices

Oct 5, 2024, 03:33 PM

Hurricane Helene has caused significant disruptions in the supply of IV fluids to hospitals across the United States. The storm led to the indefinite closure of Baxter International's North Cove facility in North Carolina, the country's largest producer of IV fluids. The facility was flooded during the storm surge, and there is no timeline for its reopening due to the extra steps needed to ensure product sterility. Hospital groups have warned of supply disruptions, and the FDA has not yet declared a shortage of any Baxter products, though this could change if the plant remains closed. Additionally, the price of IV fluids and semiconductor bricks is expected to increase.