The Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) is appealing to the public to donate blood as the blood supply is under severe pressure. “As we head into day 3 of the ongoing taxi strike our blood stocks are negatively affected,” says Marike Carli, Public Relations Manager at WCBS. “This is mainly due to staff not being able to get to work, and some of our blood donation clinics had to close either earlier or in their entirety over the last few days, and we have therefore not been able to collect the target number of units.”
Currently there is a critical shortage in the O and B blood groups, with only a two-day supply left. The A-positive blood stocks are also under pressure as only a three-day supply remains. WCBS always aims to have a blood-stock level of five days.
WCBS would like to reiterate that it remain crucial to supply the Western Cape with sufficient, safe blood. The service, therefore, urges new and regular donors to donate blood as soon as possible. If you are between ages 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.
“We would like to reassure the public that we remain fully operational despite the current difficulties,” Carli added. “We will update any changes such as dates and times to our blood donation clinics on our website and on social media.”
For more information, please visit www.wcbs.org.za, or send a WhatsApp to 060 549 7244.
