Baxter to Resume IV Fluid Production This Week; AABB Toolkit Tracks Updates

Baxter International, a leading U.S. manufacturer of intravenous and peritoneal dialysis solutions, plans to resume production of its highest-demand IV solutions at its North Carolina facility this week. This follows a month-long disruption after unprecedented flooding at the company's North Cove facility in Marion, N.C., caused by Hurricane Helene.

In response to the storm, Baxter has worked closely with the Department of Health and Human Services, the Food and Drug Administration and other partners to resume production and boost inventory. Measures include activating facilities across its global network and securing FDA authorization to extend expiration dates for over 50 IV and irrigation products by up to 12 months. HHS described these actions and additional inventory management strategies in an Oct. 28 informational briefing. 

New Member Toolkit Tracks Latest Updates

AABB has prepared a new toolkit with resources to help  facilities manage their saline solution inventory during anticipated supply shortages. The toolkit includes links and updates from Baxter and other government agencies, as well as AABB’s Saline Supply Shortage - Clinical Transfusion Medicines Committee Considerations for Mitigation.

AABB will continue updating the toolkit as new information becomes available and encourages members to check frequently for the latest resources.