US hurricane damage to impact Australian IV fluid imports

We continue to closely monitor IV fluid supplies after a US factory was damaged due to recent storms.

The National Response Group met recently and identified likely delays in the import of sodium chloride 0.9% 50mL bags from the United States because of damage from the recent hurricane to production facilities.

AMA President Dr Danielle McMullen represents the AMA on the National Response Group, ensuring that clinician feedback continues to inform decisions being taken.

The recent meeting of the National Response Group agreed that delays were likely in the arrival of imported products, reducing the ability to rebuild local stock.

A meeting communique from 14 October noted that: "Additional local production has commenced and should be able to meet demand. Supply will likely remain constrained until the end of 2024.

Supply of sodium chloride 0.9% 1000mL and Harmann's solution 1000mL is expected to continue to be constrained until local stock can be rebuilt".

The communique calls on health providers to continue to aim for a reduction is usage of these product lines through conservation strategies and by using a smaller volume (500mL) where clinically appropriate.

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