The American Red Cross is experiencing an emergency blood shortage as the nation faces the lowest number of people giving blood in 20 years.
According to the American Red Cross, blood donations have experienced a 40 percent decline over the last two decades. Between Christmas and New Years, they experienced a 7,000-unit shortfall in blood donations.
“Small changes in blood donor turnout can have a huge impact on the availability of blood products and dramatic consequences for those in need of an emergency blood transfusion,” said Dr. Eric Gehrie, executive physician director for the Red Cross. “More challenges may lie ahead as the potential for severe winter weather and seasonal illness may compound the dire blood supply situation. Donors of all types – especially those with Type O blood and those giving platelets – are urged to give now.”
Shortages of blood products are starting to affect hospitals as the American Red Cross has started limit distributions of type O blood products to hospitals. Type O being known as the universal blood type and the most transferred.
A blood drive took place in New Concord on Jan. 25 at John Glenn High School. Another blood drive takes place in Zanesville at Trinity United Presbyterian Church on Jan. 30 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The NFL has partnered with the American Red Cross for January which is National Blood Donor Month. Those who give blood are automatically entered for a chance to win tickets to Super Bowl LVIII.
“It’s extremely convenient. It takes about an hour of your time… When you arrive, we have wonderful blood donor ambassadors who will greet you when you get there,” Marita Salkowski, Regional Communications Director for Central & Southern Ohio. “If you consider that an hour of your time can help save lives, there’s no better use of an hour of your day.”
Those who are interested in donating blood are encouraged to make an appointment, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
