The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) is calling on eligible South Africans to donate blood as national stocks come under pressure.
SANBS aims to maintain a five-day blood supply for hospitals but is currently falling short of its daily collection target of 3 500 units. Contributing factors include fewer blood drives at schools and universities during the examination period and competing demands on donors’ time.
The organisation is appealing to three groups: donors who are due to donate, first-time donors and lapsed donors willing to return. It is particularly encouraging O and B blood group donors to come forward – O negative is the universal type used in emergencies, while group B helps maintain balanced stock for specific patient groups. However, all blood groups are welcome and needed.
“Blood cannot be manufactured. It can only come from people who choose to give,” said Monique Schreiner, senior manager: donor relations at SANBS. “A single donation takes about 30 minutes and can save up to three lives.”
The need for blood is constant, with mothers giving birth, surgical patients, accident and trauma victims and people receiving ongoing treatment all depending on a safe supply.
Eligible donors can visit their nearest SANBS donor centre or blood drive. For more information, contact the toll-free line on 0800 11 90 31 or visit www.sanbs.org.za.
