Community Corner

Red Cross Issues Urgent Need for Blood Donations

The Red Cross could experience an emergency situation in the coming weeks if blood donations don't increase, the organization said in a statement.

Written by Kara Seymour 

The American Red Cross says it is facing a looming blood shortage and has an urgent need for donations of all blood types.

“The number of donors continues to decline and the shortfall is significant enough that the Red Cross could experience an emergency situation in the coming weeks,” the Red Cross said in an announcement.

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According to data from the Red Cross, donations are down approximately eight percent over the last 11 weeks, resulting in about 80,000 fewer donations than expected.

Eligible donors with types O negative, B negative and A negative blood are especially needed at this time. Type O negative is the universal blood type and can be transfused to anyone who needs blood. Types A negative and B negative can be transfused to Rh positive or negative patients.

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There is also an urgent need for platelet donations, according to the Red Cross.

To donate blood, call 1-800-RED CROSS or visit redcrossblood.org and make an appointment. A blood donor card or driver’s license, or two other forms of identification are required at check-in.

Individuals should be at least 17 years old (16 with parental permission in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health. 


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