Hospitals across the United States are rationing critical intravenous fluids and postponing some surgeries as the national supply chain continues to reel from severe disruptions triggered by Hurricane Helene two weeks ago.

The F.D.A. has authorized shipments from overseas plants to ease shortages of IV bags caused by Hurricane Helene as hospitals begin rationing fluids to protect the sickest patients.

Baxter International said it would temporarily close production at its North Cove, North Carolina-based facility, raising concerns about a potential nationwide shortage.

It is a reflection of the far-reaching consequences of Hurricane Helene and the resulting supply chain interruptions.

With one major medical supplier's production hubs closed, hospitals say they are rationing IV fluid bags and employing other conservation measures.

San Joaquin General Hospital is warning of an IV fluid shortage after Hurricane Helene damaged the manufacturing plant of one of the nation's largest suppliers. Baxter International, a health care and medical technology company in North Carolina,

Hospitals in the Twin Cities are bracing for a possible IV fluid shortage after Hurricane Helene forced a medical supply manufacturer to close its North Carolina plant.