Officials from the US Department of Health and Human Services updated kidney care leaders on the fallout from hurricane damage to Baxter’s North Caroline plant. A representative of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response said that it is working with the FDA and Baxter to mitigate shortages of fluids for dialysis patients. The government has invoked the Defense Production Act to ensure that Baxter has the materials needed to clean up their facility. Two other companies are increasing production to their full capacity to bring additional products to market. Products from Baxter’s overseas facilities are being airlifted to the US, with 200 flights scheduled.
An FDA representative reported that officials are troubleshooting obstacles to importing materials. Patients should expect a few weeks more of shortages before products are fully available, and that conservation strategies will have to be pursued during this period of 60% availability.
