Emerging Threats

SMFM is monitoring the various emerging threats below. We will continue to provide helpful resources for clinicians and patients. Please check back frequently for any new information. 

SMFM Alert: Intravenous Fluid Shortage (Updated: October 10, 2024) 

Healthcare professionals and institutions should be aware of a probable intravenous (IV) fluid supply shortage in the US due to Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton. This Alert provides opportunities for IV fluid conservation efforts in this scenario and future potential shortages. Please note that these recommendations are temporary and in an emergent setting. SMFM will continue to monitor this situation and provide updated information as needed. 

Additional Resources:

Chikungunya is a vector-borne illness transmitted through mosquito bites. SMFM is monitoring the latest on this disease and will provide new information as it becomes available.  
Extreme heat is one of the many impacts of climate change, one of the biggest emerging global health threats of the 21st century. Pregnant individuals are more susceptible to heat-related illness and potential adverse health outcomes. SMFM is monitoring the latest on this emerging threat and will continue to provide helpful resources for clinicians and patients. Please check back frequently for any new information.  
Learning Opportunities

Climate-related exposures and pregnancy health: a focus on heat and diagnosing heat-related illness

Dr. Blair Wylie presents the MFM Fellow Lecture: Climate-related Exposures and Pregnancy Health: A Focus on Heat and Diagnosing Heat-related Illness.

Heat and Health: Managing Heat Exposure During Pregnancy
In this episode of the SMFM podcast series, Dr. Janine Rhodes discusses the critical topic of managing pregnancy during extreme heat with guests Dr. Sarah Boudova and Dr. Romeo Galang. They delve into the physiological impacts of heat on pregnant individuals, potential adverse outcomes, and practical strategies for healthcare providers to support their patients. The conversation also covers the CDC's CHIL’D OUT Questionnaire, the importance of staying hydrated, and considerations for medication management in high temperatures.

Partner Resources