Blood donors are needed immediately because the United States is at “dangerously low blood supply levels.”
That’s the message from the American Red Cross as the organization says the country faces a national blood crisis.
“In recent weeks, the Red Cross had less than a one-day supply of critical blood types and has had to limit blood product distributions to hospitals. At times, as much as one-quarter of hospital blood needs are not being met,” according to a news release from the American Red Cross.
Red Cross officials said that people with all blood types, but especially type O, are urged to make an appointment to give blood.
“Our inventory is truly at crisis levels,” according to Holly Baker, communications manager of the American Red Cross of Illinois. “Right now, doctors are being forced to decide which patients receive blood transfusions and who must wait. It’s a dire situation, and we need your help letting potential donors know how critical it is that they make an appointment to give blood or platelets this winter.”
The blood supply is in very short supply because of the harsh winter weather and the recent surge of COVID-19, according to Dr. Baia Lasky, the Red Cross’ medical director.
In an effort to spur donations, the Red Cross and the NFL are partnering this January, during National Blood Donor Month, to offer blood donors a chance to win a get-away to Super Bowl LVI in Los Angeles. Donors can also win a theater package and a $500 e-gift card. For more information on these prizes, go to redcrossblood.org/superbowl.
In addition to blood donors, the Red Cross also needs the help of volunteers to support critical blood collections across the country. To volunteer, visit redcross.org/volunteertoday.
For more information on local Red Cross efforts, contact the American Red Cross of the Quad Cities and West Central Illinois at (309) 743-2166.
