The following statement has been issued by AABB, America’s Blood Centers, and the American Red Cross regarding the status of the nation’s blood supply:
As blood centers mark National Blood Donor Month this January, severe winter weather across large portions of the country is threatening to further disrupt blood donations at a time when supplies are already critically low in some regions. Winter storms can force the cancellation of blood drives, limit donor access, delay transportation of blood products, and interrupt deliveries to hospitals, sometimes for days. These weather-related disruptions are compounding other seasonal challenges, including a severe flu season that has impacted many regular donors.
Blood components have a short shelf life, and the blood supply needs to be constantly replenished. Blood can take up to three days to be tested, processed and made available for patients, so it’s the blood already on the shelves that helps save lives in an emergency. In the U.S., more than 16 million units of blood and blood products are transfused annually with more than 45,000 units needed daily.
Blood donations are needed now before severe winter weather hits. The Association for the Advancement of Blood & Biotherapies (AABB), America’s Blood Centers and the American Red Cross are joining together to urge individuals to contact their local blood center and make an appointment to donate blood today.
The blood community relies on the generosity of blood donors to help save lives throughout the year. Please contact one of the following organizations to find a local blood donation site and to schedule an appointment to donate:
- AABB: www.wheretodonateblood.org; +1.301.907.6977
- America’s Blood Centers: www.americasblood.org; +1.202.393.5725
- American Red Cross: www.RedCrossBlood.org; +1.800.RED CROSS (+1.800.733.2767)
Blood donation remains a safe way that eligible individuals can help save lives throughout the year. Giving blood is quick, easy and relatively painless. Individuals who have received a flu vaccine are able to donate blood and platelets as long as they are symptom-free and feeling well at the time of donation.
The blood community appreciates the patience of blood donors and blood drive hosts during this time. If a donation appointment is not immediately available or a blood drive is moved for various scheduling reasons, please schedule for the next appointment.
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