Government to coordinate IV fluid distribution in response to shortage across Australia

The IV fluid shortage poses ‘no threat to patient care’, the AMA chief has said after speaking with the chair of the government taskforce. Photograph: Thirasak Phuchom/Alamy

The government is stepping in to coordinate the distribution of IV fluids across the country in response to a shortage of the vital medical supplies.

The shortage, which is expected to continue throughout 2024, has shone a light on the vulnerability of Australia’s supply chain and ability to source crucial health supplies beyond medicines.