Health and Me

Supriya Ramesh

XFG ‘Stratus’ COVID Now Dominant in US: States With Highest Cases and How to Spot Unique Symptoms

XFG ‘Stratus’ COVID Now Dominant in US

The XFG “Stratus” <span>COVID-19</span> variant is officially strutting into the pandemic spotlight. It is new, it is bold, and according to the latest data from the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it is now the third most common variant in the US. But it is popping up in certain states more than others, and the way it announces its arrival could be by making your throat feel like you have swallowed a box of sandpaper.

While the national Covid-19 test positivity rate sits in the 5–9.9 per cent range, a dozen states are seeing significantly higher numbers.

According to CDC data, the states with the highest positivity rates are:

<ul><li>New Mexico (12%)</li><li>Texas (12%)</li><li>Oklahoma (12%)</li><li>Arkansas (12%)</li><li>Louisiana (12%)</li><li>Nevada (11.3%)</li><li>Arizona (11.3%)</li><li>California (11.3%)</li><li>Alaska (11.1%)</li><li>Washington (11.1%)</li><li>Oregon (11.1%)</li><li>Idaho (11.1%)</li></ul>

These states are not just reporting higher numbers but are also providing ideal conditions for <span>Stratus</span> to spread. With case trends officially “growing” according to the CDC, it is a situation that demands close attention.

Stratus is a variant under monitoring by the World Health Organisation (WHO). First detected in January, <span>XFG Stratus</span> now accounts for about 14 per cent of <span>Covid</span> cases in the US.

While theW says the health risk from Stratus remains low at a global level, this variant is still on a growth spurt, outpacing other circulating forms of the virus, including its sibling, the “Nimbus” NB.1.8.1 variant. The concerning bit is that the WHO says Stratus could be more adept at sidestepping immune defences. The reassuring bit is that the current <span>vaccines</span> are expected to continue protecting against symptomatic and severe disease caused by Stratus.

<h3>Spotting <span rel="noindex">Unique Stratus Symptoms</span> </h3>

The tricky thing about Stratus is that it is not trying to reinvent the Covid symptom wheel. According to experts, its symptoms look suspiciously similar to other recent <span>Omicron</span> descendants. But there is one possible stand-out, a sensation some patients are calling “razor blade throat”.

<ul><li>Sore throat (sometimes severe)</li><li>Cough</li><li>Congestion or runny nose</li><li>Fever or chills</li><li>Shortness of breath</li><li>Loss of taste or smell</li><li>Fatigue</li><li>Headache</li><li>Muscle aches</li><li>Nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea</li></ul>

The “razor blade throat” description might sound too much, but anyone who has had that burning, scratchy pain knows it is no joke. Hoarseness has also been reported more often lately. Still, a sore throat has been a hallmark Covid symptom since the early days of the pandemic; Stratus just seems to be leaning into it.

<h3>Why the Positivity Spike Matters</h3>

Higher positivity rates do not just mean more people are testing positive; they can also signal under-testing. If more than 10 per cent of people tested are infected, it suggests many cases are flying under the radar, which means more opportunities for the virus to spread unchecked. That is especially risky when you have a variant with a knack for growing its share of cases quickly, like Stratus.

The fact that 12 states are sitting above the 11 per cent mark means public health teams will be watching these regions closely in the coming weeks. In the meantime, everyday precautions like masking in crowded places, testing if symptomatic, and staying up to date with vaccines remain the best tools in the toolbox.

<h3>Stratus vs. <span rel="noindex">Nimbus</span></h3>

While Stratus is currently the one hogging headlines, it is not alone. The “Nimbus” NB.1.8.1 variant is still in the mix, though it is being outpaced by Stratus globally. 

For now, Stratus is the one to watch and not because it is the most dangerous, but because it is the fastest climber.

The XFG Stratus variant is not changing anything, but it is a reminder that the virus is still evolving and still finding ways to make itself known. Got a sudden sore throat that feels like sandpaper? Do not brush it off. Stratus may not be a storm you can see on a weather map, but it is  definitely in the air.

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COVID Now Dominant in US

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The XFG “Stratus” COVID-19 variant is officially strutting into the pandemic spotlight. It is new, it is bold, and according to the latest data from the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it is now the third most common variant in the US. But it is popping up in certain states more than others, and the way it announces its arrival could be by making your throat feel like you have swallowed a box of sandpaper.While the national Covid-19 test positivity rate sits in the 5–9.9 per cent range, a dozen states are seeing significantly higher numbers.According to CDC data, the states with the highest positivity rates are:New Mexico (12%)Texas (12%)Oklahoma (12%)Arkansas (12%)Louisiana (12%)Nevada (11.3%)Arizona (11.3%)California (11.3%)Alaska (11.1%)Washington (11.1%)Oregon (11.1%)Idaho (11.1%)These states are not just reporting higher numbers but are also providing ideal conditions for Stratus to spread. With case trends officially “growing” according to the CDC, it is a situation that demands close attention.Stratus is a variant under monitoring by the World Health Organisation (WHO). First detected in January, XFG Stratus now accounts for about 14 per cent of Covid cases in the US.While theW says the health risk from Stratus remains low at a global level, this variant is still on a growth spurt, outpacing other circulating forms of the virus, including its sibling, the “Nimbus” NB.1.8.1 variant. The concerning bit is that the WHO says Stratus could be more adept at sidestepping immune defences. The reassuring bit is that the current vaccines are expected to continue protecting against symptomatic and severe disease caused by Stratus.Spotting Unique Stratus Symptoms The tricky thing about Stratus is that it is not trying to reinvent the Covid symptom wheel. According to experts, its symptoms look suspiciously similar to other recent Omicron descendants. But there is one possible stand-out, a sensation some patients are calling “razor blade throat”.Here’s the full checklist:Sore throat (sometimes severe)CoughCongestion or runny noseFever or chillsShortness of breathLoss of taste or smellFatigueHeadacheMuscle achesNausea, vomiting or diarrhoeaThe “razor blade throat” description might sound too much, but anyone who has had that burning, scratchy pain knows it is no joke. Hoarseness has also been reported more often lately. Still, a sore throat has been a hallmark Covid symptom since the early days of the pandemic; Stratus just seems to be leaning into it.Why the Positivity Spike MattersHigher positivity rates do not just mean more people are testing positive; they can also signal under-testing. If more than 10 per cent of people tested are infected, it suggests many cases are flying under the radar, which means more opportunities for the virus to spread unchecked. That is especially risky when you have a variant with a knack for growing its share of cases quickly, like Stratus.The fact that 12 states are sitting above the 11 per cent mark means public health teams will be watching these regions closely in the coming weeks. In the meantime, everyday precautions like masking in crowded places, testing if symptomatic, and staying up to date with vaccines remain the best tools in the toolbox.Stratus vs. NimbusWhile Stratus is currently the one hogging headlines, it is not alone. The “Nimbus” NB.1.8.1 variant is still in the mix, though it is being outpaced by Stratus globally. For now, Stratus is the one to watch and not because it is the most dangerous, but because it is the fastest climber.Final ForecastThe XFG Stratus variant is not changing anything, but it is a reminder that the virus is still evolving and still finding ways to make itself known. Got a sudden sore throat that feels like sandpaper? Do not brush it off. Stratus may not be a storm you can see on a weather map, but it is  definitely in the air.

xfg ‘stratus’ covid now dominant in us: states with highest cases and how to spot unique symptoms

UK Health Chiefs Warn of Rising Cases of Deadly Chikungunya Virus That Can Cause Body to ‘Fold In on Itself’

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Health authorities in the UK have reported a significant rise in chikungunya cases, a mosquito-borne disease known for causing <span>severe joint pain</span> that can leave sufferers hunched over. Between January and June 2025, there were 73 confirmed cases in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, more than double the 27 recorded during the same period in 2024. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) says this is the highest number ever recorded, with nearly all linked to overseas travel.

Spread by the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, particularly the <span>Aedes aegypti</span> and <span>Aedes albopictus</span> species, chikungunya is not usually deadly but can be devastating for the very young, the elderly, or those with underlying health conditions.

<ul><li>Excruciating joint pain that can leave sufferers bent over in agony</li><li>High fever and headaches</li><li>Muscle aches and swelling in the joints (especially hands and feet)</li><li>Nausea, fatigue, and a rash that’s red, bumpy, and decidedly not Instagrammable</li></ul>

In severe cases, the arthritis-like pain can linger for months or even years, turning every movement into a reminder that mosquitoes are not just a mild holiday nuisance.

The majority of UK cases this year were linked to travel to Sri Lanka, India, and Mauritius. All were reported in England, with London taking the dubious honour of having the most cases. However, the two mosquito species that spread the virus are not established in the UK, so there is no risk of it transmitting locally.

<h3>UK logs first cases of oropouche virus</h3>

As if one virus was not enough, the UK has also logged its first cases of the oropouche virus, also dubbed ‘sloth fever’. This one circulates in the wild between primates, sloths, and birds before occasionally hopping over to humans via midges or mosquitoes.

Found primarily in the Amazon basin, oropouche has recently started wandering further across the Americas. All the UK cases were linked to travel from Brazil, so unless your staycation involves tree-dwelling mammals and tropical insects, you are safe for now.

Chikungunya is typically found in Africa and southern Asia, but 2025 has seen it pop up in unexpected places. Outbreaks have been reported in China, the Indian Ocean islands of Reunion, Mayotte and Mauritius, and across the Americas. In southern China, more than 7,000 people have been infected since June, prompting COVID-style lockdowns in Foshan and at least a dozen other cities in Guangdong province. Hong Kong and Taiwan have also reported cases.

Health officials are urging travellers to take bite prevention seriously.

<h3>How to safeguard against mosquito bites </h3>

According to the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), your best defence is to stop mosquitoes from making contact in the first place. 

<ul><li>Use Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellent </li><li>Wear long-sleeved shirts and trousers (mosquitoes can’t bite what they can’t reach)</li><li>Treat clothing and gear with 0.5% permethrin for extra armour</li><li>Choose accommodation with air conditioning or window screens</li><li>If sleeping outdoors, use a mosquito net unless you enjoy sharing your bed with the local insect population</li></ul>

In addition to covering up and dousing yourself in repellent, some travellers may be advised to get the <span>chikungunya vaccine</span> before heading to certain destinations. Your healthcare provider can help you decide if this applies to your travel plans.

Several factors could be behind the sharp rise in cases. Increased international travel post-pandemic, changing weather patterns favouring mosquito breeding, and outbreaks in popular holiday destinations have created a perfect storm. Mosquitoes thrive in warm, wet conditions, and with climate change extending those conditions into more regions, these viruses are no longer staying politely within their old borders.

Chikungunya virus can turn a dream getaway into a painful endurance test, and once contracted, it is all about managing symptoms; there is no cure. The same goes for oropouche: prevention is your best friend. In the world of <span>tropical diseases</span>, an ounce of repellent really is worth a pound of cure.

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Health authorities in the UK have reported a significant rise in chikungunya cases, a mosquito-borne disease known for causing severe joint pain that can leave sufferers hunched over. Between January and June 2025, there were 73 confirmed cases in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, more than double the 27 recorded during the same period in 2024. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) says this is the highest number ever recorded, with nearly all linked to overseas travel.What is Chikungunya? Spread by the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, particularly the Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus species, chikungunya is not usually deadly but can be devastating for the very young, the elderly, or those with underlying health conditions.Typical symptoms include:Excruciating joint pain that can leave sufferers bent over in agonyHigh fever and headachesMuscle aches and swelling in the joints (especially hands and feet)Nausea, fatigue, and a rash that’s red, bumpy, and decidedly not InstagrammableIn severe cases, the arthritis-like pain can linger for months or even years, turning every movement into a reminder that mosquitoes are not just a mild holiday nuisance.The majority of UK cases this year were linked to travel to Sri Lanka, India, and Mauritius. All were reported in England, with London taking the dubious honour of having the most cases. However, the two mosquito species that spread the virus are not established in the UK, so there is no risk of it transmitting locally.UK logs first cases of oropouche virusAs if one virus was not enough, the UK has also logged its first cases of the oropouche virus, also dubbed ‘sloth fever’. This one circulates in the wild between primates, sloths, and birds before occasionally hopping over to humans via midges or mosquitoes.Found primarily in the Amazon basin, oropouche has recently started wandering further across the Americas. All the UK cases were linked to travel from Brazil, so unless your staycation involves tree-dwelling mammals and tropical insects, you are safe for now.The Global Bug CrawlChikungunya is typically found in Africa and southern Asia, but 2025 has seen it pop up in unexpected places. Outbreaks have been reported in China, the Indian Ocean islands of Reunion, Mayotte and Mauritius, and across the Americas. In southern China, more than 7,000 people have been infected since June, prompting COVID-style lockdowns in Foshan and at least a dozen other cities in Guangdong province. Hong Kong and Taiwan have also reported cases.Health officials are urging travellers to take bite prevention seriously.How to safeguard against mosquito bites According to the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), your best defence is to stop mosquitoes from making contact in the first place. Top tips include:Use Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellent Wear long-sleeved shirts and trousers (mosquitoes can’t bite what they can’t reach)Treat clothing and gear with 0.5% permethrin for extra armourChoose accommodation with air conditioning or window screensIf sleeping outdoors, use a mosquito net unless you enjoy sharing your bed with the local insect populationVaccination In addition to covering up and dousing yourself in repellent, some travellers may be advised to get the chikungunya vaccine before heading to certain destinations. Your healthcare provider can help you decide if this applies to your travel plans.Why the Surge Now?Several factors could be behind the sharp rise in cases. Increased international travel post-pandemic, changing weather patterns favouring mosquito breeding, and outbreaks in popular holiday destinations have created a perfect storm. Mosquitoes thrive in warm, wet conditions, and with climate change extending those conditions into more regions, these viruses are no longer staying politely within their old borders.Chikungunya virus can turn a dream getaway into a painful endurance test, and once contracted, it is all about managing symptoms; there is no cure. The same goes for oropouche: prevention is your best friend. In the world of tropical diseases, an ounce of repellent really is worth a pound of cure.

uk health chiefs warn of rising cases of deadly chikungunya virus that can cause body to ‘fold in on itself’

Ishita Roy

Scott Swift, Taylor Swift's Dad Underwent A Quintuple Bypass Heart Surgery, Here's What We Know About It So Far

Scott Swift, Pop Singer Taylor Swift's Dad Underwent A Quintuple Bypass Heart Surgery After A Stress Test, Here's What We Know About It So Far

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Scott Swift, Taylor Swift's dad recommends everyone to take stress test

Scott Swift, Taylor Swift's dad undergoes quintuple bypass surgery

<span>Scott Swift</span>, 73, pop singer <span>Taylor Swift</span>'s dad just underwent a quintuple <span>bypass surgery</span>, revealed Taylor during one of the episodes of Travis Kelce and Jason Kelce's New Heights podcast. 

She also shared that she had moved in with her dad earlier this year to take care of him for a speedy recovery. She noted that her father has been full of gratitude after the surgery. "He was the loveliest patient ever. He just kept saying thank you over and over again."

<h2>Why Did Scott Swift Need A Surgery?</h2>

Taylor called the surgery "really intense" and said that her dad's heart always had a healthy ECG or electrocardiogram. He also ensures to get it every year to remain a step ahead of any physical ailments. However, five hard blockages were found in his heart during a resting stress test. 

"He's been telling all his friends, 'You need to get the stress test,' because that's what's actually preventative. If you can find that earlier, you don't have to have a bypass surgery," she said.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/daughter-of-kate-shemirani-passes-away-from-cancer-at-23-son-says-she-fell-for-anti-vaxxer-mums-conspiracy-theories-article-152140272" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Daughter Of Kate Shemirani Passes Away From Cancer At 23, Son Says She Fell For Anti-vaxxer 'Mum's Conspiracy Theories'</a>

<h4>Taylor confirmed that her father is doing "incredibly well" and that his humor has helped him go through during the hard times. It still is very much intact in him.</h4>

She shares that he did not know how many blockages he's had, on being told that he underwent a quintuple bypass, which means five blockages, he also joked about it. "Well, you see, I come from a very competitive family," he told Taylor.

As per the National Institute of Health (NIH), US, it is a form of physical test that typically utilizes electrocardiography along with blood pressure monitoring and exercise, which involves a treadmill or bicycle. 

However, in a resting stress test, the assessment happens when the heart muscle is at rest after stress. This stress helps in identifying areas of reduced blood flow like ischemia or damage to the heart muscle, which can indicate conditions like coronary artery disease. 

The test involves injecting a radioactive tracer into the bloodstream, then using a special camera to take images of the heart at rest and after stress.

As per Johns Hopkins Medicine, bypass surgery or coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG) is a procedure used to treat coronary artery disease. Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the narrowing of the coronary arteries. These are the blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to the heart muscle. CAD is caused by a build-up of fatty material within the walls of the arteries. This buildup narrows the inside of the arteries, limiting the supply of oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle.

One way to treat the blocked or narrowed arteries is to bypass the blocked portion of the coronary artery with a piece of a healthy blood vessel from elsewhere in your body. Blood vessels, or grafts, used for the bypass procedure may be pieces of a vein from your leg or an artery in your chest. An artery from your wrist may also be used.

<strong>ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/4-rare-heart-diseases-that-are-becoming-common-by-each-passing-day-article-152383714" data-type="tilCustomLink">4 Rare Heart Diseases That Are Becoming Common By Each Passing Day</a></strong>

This surgery is done to treat a blockage or narrowing of one or more of the coronary arteries. It can restore the blood supply to your heart muscle when nonsurgical procedures are not a choice.

<h2>More Updates From The Swift Family</h2>

In addition to Scott, Taylor shared that her mom Andrea Swift, too, under a procedure. “My mom just got a new knee,” Taylor shared. “She’s doing great. She’s scampering around. We’re not quite at scampering yet, but she’s doing great.”

She noted that her parents are her best friends. 

<h4>"It was actually one of the most special things that's ever happened to me, spending all that time with them this summer. You have those long talks that you don't have when it's a small, concentrated period of time.”</h4>

scott swift

scott swift bypass surgery

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Scott Swift, 73, pop singer Taylor Swift's dad just underwent a quintuple bypass surgery, revealed Taylor during one of the episodes of Travis Kelce and Jason Kelce's New Heights podcast. She also shared that she had moved in with her dad earlier this year to take care of him for a speedy recovery. She noted that her father has been full of gratitude after the surgery. "He was the loveliest patient ever. He just kept saying thank you over and over again."Why Did Scott Swift Need A Surgery?Taylor called the surgery "really intense" and said that her dad's heart always had a healthy ECG or electrocardiogram. He also ensures to get it every year to remain a step ahead of any physical ailments. However, five hard blockages were found in his heart during a resting stress test. "He's been telling all his friends, 'You need to get the stress test,' because that's what's actually preventative. If you can find that earlier, you don't have to have a bypass surgery," she said.Also Read: Daughter Of Kate Shemirani Passes Away From Cancer At 23, Son Says She Fell For Anti-vaxxer 'Mum's Conspiracy Theories'Taylor confirmed that her father is doing "incredibly well" and that his humor has helped him go through during the hard times. It still is very much intact in him.She shares that he did not know how many blockages he's had, on being told that he underwent a quintuple bypass, which means five blockages, he also joked about it. "Well, you see, I come from a very competitive family," he told Taylor.What Is A Stress Test?        As per the National Institute of Health (NIH), US, it is a form of physical test that typically utilizes electrocardiography along with blood pressure monitoring and exercise, which involves a treadmill or bicycle. However, in a resting stress test, the assessment happens when the heart muscle is at rest after stress. This stress helps in identifying areas of reduced blood flow like ischemia or damage to the heart muscle, which can indicate conditions like coronary artery disease. The test involves injecting a radioactive tracer into the bloodstream, then using a special camera to take images of the heart at rest and after stress.What Is A Bypass Surgery?        As per Johns Hopkins Medicine, bypass surgery or coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG) is a procedure used to treat coronary artery disease. Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the narrowing of the coronary arteries. These are the blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to the heart muscle. CAD is caused by a build-up of fatty material within the walls of the arteries. This buildup narrows the inside of the arteries, limiting the supply of oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle.How Does It Work? One way to treat the blocked or narrowed arteries is to bypass the blocked portion of the coronary artery with a piece of a healthy blood vessel from elsewhere in your body. Blood vessels, or grafts, used for the bypass procedure may be pieces of a vein from your leg or an artery in your chest. An artery from your wrist may also be used.ALSO READ: 4 Rare Heart Diseases That Are Becoming Common By Each Passing DayThis surgery is done to treat a blockage or narrowing of one or more of the coronary arteries. It can restore the blood supply to your heart muscle when nonsurgical procedures are not a choice.More Updates From The Swift FamilyIn addition to Scott, Taylor shared that her mom Andrea Swift, too, under a procedure. “My mom just got a new knee,” Taylor shared. “She’s doing great. She’s scampering around. We’re not quite at scampering yet, but she’s doing great.”She noted that her parents are her best friends. "It was actually one of the most special things that's ever happened to me, spending all that time with them this summer. You have those long talks that you don't have when it's a small, concentrated period of time.”

scott swift, pop singer taylor swift's dad underwent a quintuple bypass heart surgery after a stress test, here's what we know about it so far

FDA Confirms Resolution of Nationwide IV Saline Shortage

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The ‘Make America Healthy Again’ Report Is Releasing Soon: 5 Big Things It Might Reveal

the ‘make america healthy again’ report is releasing soon: 5 big things it might reveal

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced that the nationwide shortage of sodium chloride 0.9 percent intravenous (IV) saline solution, which is a critical medical supply used in hospitals and emergency care, has officially come to an end. The resolution marks a significant milestone in stabilizing the supply of one of the most essential tools in patient care.

<h4>Collaborative Effort to Restore Supply</h4>

FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, M.D., M.P.H., credited the resolution of the shortage to a coordinated effort between the FDA, the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR), and industry partners. According to Makary, this multi-agency and cross-sector collaboration allowed for rapid action to address the supply gap that had strained healthcare facilities across the country.

To overcome the shortage, the FDA and its partners implemented several urgent measures. These included enabling the temporary import of IV saline solutions from approved international sources, expediting the review process for domestic manufacturing expansions, and extending expiry dates for existing products after rigorous safety assessments. This combination of strategies helped boost production capacity and prevent supply chain bottlenecks.

<h4>Impact on Hospitals and Patient Care</h4>

Sodium chloride 0.9 percent IV saline is used for hydration, administering medications, and treating dehydration and other critical conditions. The shortage, which had persisted for months, forced hospitals to ration supplies and find alternative solutions. Medical professionals often had to adjust treatment protocols or use smaller IV bags to stretch resources, a situation that placed additional strain on already burdened healthcare systems.

Now, with supplies back to normal levels, the FDA has confirmed that the product will be removed from its official Drug Shortage Database. Facilities are being advised to return to using FDA-approved products whenever available.

<strong>ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/nutrition/the-truth-about-iv-drips-are-they-better-than-food-or-supplements-article-152197678" data-type="tilCustomLink">The Truth About IV Drips: Are They Better Than Food Or Supplements?</a></strong>

<h4>Ongoing Efforts to Prevent Future Shortages</h4>

While celebrating the resolution, the FDA emphasized that its work to secure medical product availability is far from over. Makary stressed that the agency remains committed to addressing other ongoing shortages, including those affecting certain IV fluids.

“The FDA remains focused on doing all we can to help mitigate shortages and prevent them from occurring,” Makary said in a statement. “We will continue working diligently to monitor supply levels, anticipate potential disruptions, and support a robust, secure, and transparent supply chain for medical products.”

The agency’s strategy involves close monitoring of manufacturer reports, collaboration with other federal agencies, and engagement with the private sector to anticipate challenges before they escalate into full-scale shortages.

Experts say the resolution of the saline shortage could serve as a model for responding to future disruptions in medical supply chains. By acting quickly, coordinating with multiple stakeholders, and making temporary regulatory adjustments, the FDA and its partners were able to restore availability without compromising patient safety.

Public health advocates note that the success also underscores the importance of maintaining diverse manufacturing sources, both domestically and internationally, to safeguard against sudden disruptions caused by disasters, supply chain issues, or unexpected surges in demand.

The FDA’s announcement brings relief to healthcare providers nationwide, who have been navigating supply constraints for essential items over the past few years. With IV saline now in stable supply, hospitals can focus more on patient care without the added stress of product scarcity.

However, the agency cautions that vigilance is essential. The FDA will continue to work with manufacturers, monitor production levels, and apply lessons learned from this shortage to strengthen the overall resilience of the nation’s medical supply system.

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FDA solves IV shortage

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IV shortage US

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced that the nationwide shortage of sodium chloride 0.9 percent intravenous (IV) saline solution, which is a critical medical supply used in hospitals and emergency care, has officially come to an end. The resolution marks a significant milestone in stabilizing the supply of one of the most essential tools in patient care.Collaborative Effort to Restore SupplyFDA Commissioner Marty Makary, M.D., M.P.H., credited the resolution of the shortage to a coordinated effort between the FDA, the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR), and industry partners. According to Makary, this multi-agency and cross-sector collaboration allowed for rapid action to address the supply gap that had strained healthcare facilities across the country.To overcome the shortage, the FDA and its partners implemented several urgent measures. These included enabling the temporary import of IV saline solutions from approved international sources, expediting the review process for domestic manufacturing expansions, and extending expiry dates for existing products after rigorous safety assessments. This combination of strategies helped boost production capacity and prevent supply chain bottlenecks.Impact on Hospitals and Patient CareSodium chloride 0.9 percent IV saline is used for hydration, administering medications, and treating dehydration and other critical conditions. The shortage, which had persisted for months, forced hospitals to ration supplies and find alternative solutions. Medical professionals often had to adjust treatment protocols or use smaller IV bags to stretch resources, a situation that placed additional strain on already burdened healthcare systems.Now, with supplies back to normal levels, the FDA has confirmed that the product will be removed from its official Drug Shortage Database. Facilities are being advised to return to using FDA-approved products whenever available.ALSO READ: The Truth About IV Drips: Are They Better Than Food Or Supplements?Ongoing Efforts to Prevent Future ShortagesWhile celebrating the resolution, the FDA emphasized that its work to secure medical product availability is far from over. Makary stressed that the agency remains committed to addressing other ongoing shortages, including those affecting certain IV fluids.“The FDA remains focused on doing all we can to help mitigate shortages and prevent them from occurring,” Makary said in a statement. “We will continue working diligently to monitor supply levels, anticipate potential disruptions, and support a robust, secure, and transparent supply chain for medical products.”The agency’s strategy involves close monitoring of manufacturer reports, collaboration with other federal agencies, and engagement with the private sector to anticipate challenges before they escalate into full-scale shortages.A Model for Crisis ResponseExperts say the resolution of the saline shortage could serve as a model for responding to future disruptions in medical supply chains. By acting quickly, coordinating with multiple stakeholders, and making temporary regulatory adjustments, the FDA and its partners were able to restore availability without compromising patient safety.Public health advocates note that the success also underscores the importance of maintaining diverse manufacturing sources, both domestically and internationally, to safeguard against sudden disruptions caused by disasters, supply chain issues, or unexpected surges in demand.The FDA’s announcement brings relief to healthcare providers nationwide, who have been navigating supply constraints for essential items over the past few years. With IV saline now in stable supply, hospitals can focus more on patient care without the added stress of product scarcity.However, the agency cautions that vigilance is essential. The FDA will continue to work with manufacturers, monitor production levels, and apply lessons learned from this shortage to strengthen the overall resilience of the nation’s medical supply system.

fda confirms resolution of nationwide iv saline shortage

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