BD announced it has strengthened the U.S. government's access to safety injection devices through increased manufacturing capacity and domestic supply. The new syringe and needle manufacturing lines, which were completed on an accelerated timeline, represent the public-private partnership between BD and Department of Health and Human Services' (HHS) Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response (ASPR).
In July 2020, ASPR's Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) invested approximately $42 million into a $70 million capital project to further expand BD's operations and manufacturing lines in Holdrege, Neb. The expansion builds on the company's deep commitment and legacy in supporting U.S. vaccination efforts through the domestic manufacturing of needles and syringes.
"As the fight against COVID-19 continues, we are steadfast in our commitment to securing the nation's supply continuity of these critical injection devices," said Rick Byrd, president of Medication Delivery Solutions for BD. "Our teams are working tirelessly – as they have been since the beginning of the pandemic – to ensure that all of our customers, including the U.S. government, have the supplies they need to vaccinate against this virus while simultaneously managing routine, preventative health care needs, such as the seasonal flu."
The new lines increase capacity of BD's existing needle and syringe supply capabilities domestically. To date, the company has provided several hundred million injection devices to the federal campaign. This marks a timely manufacturing milestone as the United States heads into flu vaccination season and the critical need for these essential devices continues.
"Domestic manufacturing has proven critical to responding rapidly and effectively to this pandemic," said Dawn O'Connell, HHS Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response. "With millions of lives at stake, we do not have time to wait for supplies to be shipped from other countries. Taking action now to increase U.S.-based manufacturing capacity will allow us to meet the needs of patients and health care providers while also creating valuable U.S. jobs."
Subscribe to our e-Newsletters
Stay up to date with the latest news, articles, and events. Plus, get special offers
from American Pharmaceutical Review – all delivered right to your inbox! Sign up now!