The Western Cape Blood Service has issued an appeal for blood donors as the region enters winter, a season that traditionally places severe strain on blood supplies.

The service has called on both existing and first-time donors to prioritise blood donation in the coming months, warning that winter conditions typically reduce donor numbers while hospital demand remains constant.

“Blood donation centres across the Western Cape are open and ready to welcome donors,” the WCBS said in a statement last week.

The winter appeal comes months after the service faced critical shortages. In March, WCBS reported it had only a two-day supply of O-negative blood, well below the minimum five-day supply required to ensure sustainable stock levels across Western Cape communities.

O-negative blood is used in life-threatening emergencies when there is no time to determine a patient’s blood type, making it one of the most crucial blood groups to maintain.

The service experienced similar critical shortages in December 2025, when stocks of O-negative, O-positive and B-positive blood groups dropped to two-day supplies.

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WCBS has warned that colds, flu and school holidays during winter months typically result in fewer donations, while hospital demand continues at regular levels.

The organisation advises potential donors to eat a substantial meal three to four hours before donating and to increase fluid intake before, during and after donation.

Donors must be between 16 and 75 years old, weigh 50kg or more, be in good general health and maintain a safe sexual lifestyle. The donation process takes approximately 30 minutes, and donors can give blood every 56 days.

Blood donation centres are located across the Western Cape. Those interested in donating can find their nearest clinic at wcbs.org.za or contact the service via WhatsApp on 060 549 7244.

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