The world is suffering a shortage of intravenous fluids – meanwhile vitamin infusions are all the rage for the worried well

‘Australia does not manufacture its own IV fluids and can’t compel companies to do more. Hence, doctors are receiving daily reminders to save IV fluids for those who need them the most.’ Photograph: Bhakpong/Getty Images/iStockphoto

Last week, I met a young man with cerebral palsy, hospitalised with an infection. Not capable of speaking, he lay quietly in his bed. Although he appeared settled, I had no way of knowing how he felt, so imagine my relief when his carer told me that, after 10 years, she could interpret his every expression.

“What do you think about IV fluids?” she asked. “It might perk him up a bit.”