The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is aware that the U.S. is experiencing interruptions in the supply of BD BACTEC blood culture media bottles because of recent supplier issues. The disruption in supply of this device is expected to impact patient diagnosis, follow-up patient management, and antimicrobial stewardship efforts. The FDA recommends laboratories and health care providers consider conservation strategies to prioritize the use of blood culture media bottles, preserving the supply for patients at highest risk.
The FDA recommends laboratories that may experience potential delays in supply of BD BACTEC blood culture media bottles, and health care providers who order blood cultures, develop strategies to prioritize the use of blood culture media bottles based on clinical need to maintain quality and safety of patient care.
The FDA will continue to keep health care providers and the public informed if new or additional information becomes available.