Warner and Kaine Among Senators Asking HHS Secretary for More IV Fluids Help

WASHINGTON, DC (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) - Both of Virginia’s U.S. Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine have joined Arizona’s Senator Mark Kelly and Kyrsten Sinema as well as Pennsylvania’s Bob Casey in sending a letter to Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra urging continued action to address the critical IV fluid shortage affecting hospitals across the nation. This shortage, caused by the temporary closure of Baxter International’s manufacturing plant in North Carolina due to flooding from Hurricane Helene, has created significant challenges for health care providers in Virginia and across the country. UVA Health has had to cancel and/or postpone elective surgeries due to the limited supply. Sentara Martha Jefferson has been able to proceed with all scheduled surgeries.

HHS, the FDA, and Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response are all working to increase supply from other manufacturers, allow temporary importation of fluids made abroad, and provide guidance on compounded alternatives. The Senators says hospitals need clear communication to effectively plan for the months ahead.

Click here to read the letter.