Last week the South African Blood Service (SANBS) appealed to South Africans to donate blood urgently as stock levels are severely low.
SANBS reports that group O is to be below two days’ (on 12 April) cover. The last two weeks leading to Easter weekend have had a significant impact on blood donations and collections, resulting in a shortage of blood supply across the country.
The school holidays have also had a bigger than usual impact as most blood collections are done at schools and universities.
“We are facing an unprecedented shortage of blood supply, and we urgently need the help of all South Africans to overcome this crisis. The need for blood is constant, and if we do not get blood-stock levels to at least 3 days’ cover, we may need to continue with the current cutbacks on all non-emergency cases until the situation stabilises and improves,” says Thandi Mosupye, SANBS Senior Manager: Marketing, Communication and Brand.
Donating blood is a safe process, and it only takes about 30 minutes. Those who are healthy and meet the eligibility criteria are urged to please visit their nearest donation centres and donate blood today.
SANBS has set up various blood donation drives across the country to make it easier for people to donate. For more information on where to donate blood, visit the SANBS website or call toll-free: 0800 11 90 31.
“We urge all South Africans to join us in this critical effort to ensure that we have an adequate blood supply needed to save lives,” Mosupye pleads.
Every donation counts and can make a significant impact in saving lives!
