The American Red Cross said it is facing an emergency blood shortage on Monday as demand is increasing while summer is leading to fewer donations.
The American Red Cross said it is facing an emergency blood shortage on Monday as demand is increasing while summer is leading to fewer donations.
SALT LAKE CITY — Summer is a hard time of year for the blood supply, and the American Red Cross is asking for more donations after the national blood supply has fallen 25%. Blood cannot be stored indefinitely, and donations are needed soon to make sure hospitals have blood available for their patients, Heidi Ruster, CEO of the American Red Cross Utah and Nevada region, said "This is one of the most difficult times of year to maintain a stable blood supply, and the sharp decline in donations has made the shortage more severe," she said.
A statement on Monday from the American Red Cross said hospital requests are outpacing the available blood supply, especially as there are fewer school blood drives during the summer. Around the country, hospitals are using nearly 3,500 more units of blood weekly than expected, partially due to injuries during summer activities.
"The shortage is especially serious for platelets and types O positive and B negative blood," the statement said, calling it an "urgent need. " O positive blood donations can be given to over 80% of people. Only 2% of people have a B negative blood type, and they can only accept B negative or O negative blood.
A majority of platelet donations are given to cancer patients, and they must be used within five days, so regular donations are critical for making sure hospitals have platelets on hand for patients. Blood donations must be used within 42 days of donation.redcross.org/giveblood or call 1-800-733-2767. For the rest of July, the Red Cross is offering a Fandango movie ticket as a thank-you gift for those who donate.
US appeals court revives hundreds of private lawsuits linking Tylenol to autismEmily Ashcraft is a reporter for KSL. She covers issues in state courts, health and religion. In her spare time, Emily enjoys crafting, cycling and raising chickens.
Please follow us on Google to support usTraffic Weather Sports Classifieds Cars Jobs Homes Television Radio Salt Lake Utah Local Health Local
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News: You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Red Cross Flees Dutch Asylum Centre as 'Safety No Longer Guaranteed'The Red Cross will no longer deploy aid workers to the main asylum seeker registration in the Netherlands out of concern for their safety.
Read more »
Urgent Energy Steps Needed to Counter Iranian Threatas tensions with Iran rise, the United States must leverage its energy resources and streamline permitting to ensure energy security. the article argues that America's oil, gas, and refining capacity are key geopolitical tools, though regulatory hurdles and underfilled strategic reserves weaken the nation's position. Reforming the reneWable fuel standard and accelerating infrastructure approvals are critical steps to maintain energy dominance and deter adversaries.
Read more »
‘Emergency shortage’: Red Cross said donors needed nowAmerican Red Cross officials have declared an emergency blood shortage and said donors are needed now to stop the “alarming” drop in blood supply.
Read more »
Recipe: Ina Garten’s Corn and Avocado Salad is a zesty summer concoctionThe colorful mix also includes red bell peppers, grape tomatoes, red onion and jalapeño.
Read more »