Blood stocks in the Western Cape are running dangerously low ahead of the Easter weekend, a traditionally critical period marked by increased emergencies, prompting an urgent call for donors to step forward.
The Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) is appealing to all eligible individuals to donate blood, as supplies continue to decline across all blood groups.
The service currently has only a two-day supply of O-negative blood, far below the minimum five days needed to maintain a stable and sustainable supply for communities across the province.
For the past two weeks, O-negative stock has been under severe pressure, with worrying drops now seen in other blood groups as well.
“O-negative blood is often used in life-threatening emergencies when there is no time to determine a patient’s blood type. We are calling on all blood donors to donate blood this week to help restore our blood stocks to a healthy level,” says Marike Carli, Public Relations Manager at WCBS.
If you are between 16 and 75 years old, weigh at least 50kg, are in good general health, and follow a safe sexual lifestyle, you are encouraged to donate.
A blood donation takes just 30 minutes, and each unit collected plays a vital role in sustaining the province’s blood supply.
“If you have been thinking about becoming a blood donor, now would be a great time to start donating,” added Carli.
“Whether you are an existing donor or donating for the first time, your donation could save a life when it matters most.”
To find your closest blood donation clinic, visit www.wcbs.org.za or contact WCBS via WhatsApp at 060 549 7244.
