Department store chain Target has decided to restrict the sales of over-the-counter pain and fever medication for children as the United States faces the challenge of a “tripledemic” and health care systems struggle with drug shortages.
“Tripledemic” refers to three illnesses—COVID-19, flu, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)—that are spreading during the winter season, with RSV and flu cases mainly affecting children. This has created a run on pain relievers like ibuprofen which is sold under the names Motrin and Advil, as well as acetaminophen sold under the brand name, Tylenol.
