ATLANTA — The American Red Cross has announced it is experiencing an emergency blood shortage and is seeking donors.
Since July 1, the Red Cross national blood supply has decreased by more than 25%, according to a press release. Donors of all blood types, especially type O, are asked to donate as soon as possible.
The shortage and call for more donors comes amid dangerous heat levels, which impacted almost 100 blood drives in July, the Red Cross says. The heat, as well as other obstacles like travel and summer activities, led to a shortage of more than 19,000 donations in July.
Despite the shortage, hospital demand remains strong and blood is being sent to hospitals faster than donations are being made, the release said. Type O inventory is so low that distributions of the vital blood type are reduced below what hospitals count on.
“It’s critical hospitals have both type O positive and O negative blood ready to go for patients in the most life-threatening situations,” Dr. Eric Gehrie, executive physician director for the Red Cross, said in the release. “Type O is especially important for victims of accidents and other trauma who are receiving emergency treatment. Now is the time for donors of all blood types to give and ensure hospital shelves can be restocked before any impact to patient care.”
To make an appointment, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). As a thank-you, all those who donate blood, platelets or plasma during the month of August will get a $20 Amazon gift card. The Red Cross is hosting several drives across multiple counties throughout the month. More information can be found at RedCrossBlood.org.
