FDA releases first pandemic supply shortage list

Respirator masks are among the most effective forms of protection health care workers have against contracting COVID-19. (Image courtesy of Sandia)

Months into the coronavirus pandemic, the FDA has released its first official list of shortages of items needed by healthcare workers.

The list ranges from personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gowns and gloves to testing supplies and ventilation-related products for the sickest patients. The list also includes  Becton Dickinson (NYSE:BDX) BodyGuard infusion pump and syringe pump systems, which were discontinued in April following a Class 1 recall.

Frontline healthcare workers have spoken out about PPE shortages since the pandemic began hitting the U.S. hard earlier this year, even setting up their own supply lines such as GetUsPPE, a volunteer organization connecting healthcare providers with supplies of PPE during the COVID-19 pandemic. GetUsPPE’s website lists several items that remain in short supply, including respirators and masks, gloves, goggles, face shields, disinfectant, coveralls, booties and gowns.

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