The Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) is appealing to all donors to donate blood as blood stocks are critically low. There is a critical shortage in the O-negative blood group, with only a two-day supply left. The A-positive blood stock is also declining.
The need for blood and blood products increases annually, and to meet the province’s demand WCBS need to ensure that collection targets are met. Each day the blood service needs to collect 700 units of blood. For this they need 1-2% of the Western Cape’s population to become blood donors but at the moment, only 0,92% of the population are active blood donors.
If you are between age 16 and 75, weigh 50 kg or more, are in good general health, and lead a safe sexual lifestyle you should be able to donate. Blood donation takes only 30 minutes of your time and you can donate blood every 56 days. It is never too late to donate blood. . Donate blood every Thursday at the Toringkerk church hall from 12:30 to 18:45.
