FDA Creates First-Ever Medical Supply Shortage List Including Masks, Swabs and Ventilators

According to The Hill , the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Friday created its first list of medical supplies that are facing a shortage just hours after the White House touted the Trump administration's production of personal protective equipment (PPE) and other devices. In an attempt to prevent stockpiling or hoarding of supplies, the new list does not reveal the product manufacturers. But it does list that masks, surgical gowns, ventilators, respirators, gloves, and sterile swabs are in short supply. PPE supply shortages were commonly reported at the start of the pandemic, but lockdown efforts and President Trump's use of the Defense Production Act led to a slowdown of hospitalizations and an increase in crucial supplies. Nevertheless, some rural hospitals and other health care groups have struggled to keep key supplies in stock. Last month, National Nurses United cautioned that new outbreaks could mean more shortages like the ones seen at the beginning of the pandemic.