Red Cross appeals for blood donations as supply dips by 25% in wake of heat disruptions, seasonal decline

The American Red Cross is experiencing an emergency blood shortage as the nation faces dangerous levels of heat and people head out for final summer travel plans. Since July 1, the Red Cross national blood supply has fallen by more than 25%, and blood donors of all types, especially those with type O blood, are urged to give as soon as possible to help patients receive lifesaving medical care.

Heat impacted almost 100 blood drives in July in nearly every state where the Red Cross collects blood – compounding other seasonal obstacles to blood donation, such as travel and summer activities. Together these factors contributed to a shortfall of more than 17,000 blood donations in July. At the same time, hospital demand for blood products remains strong. Blood products are being sent to hospitals faster than donations are coming in. Right now, type O inventory is so low, distributions of this vital blood type are reduced below what hospitals count on.

“It’s critical hospitals have both type O positive and O negative blood ready to go for patients in the most life-threatening situations,” said Dr. Eric Gehrie, executive physician director for the Red Cross. “Type O is especially important for victims of accidents and other trauma who are receiving emergency treatment. Now is the time for donors of all blood types to give and ensure hospital shelves can be restocked before any impact to patient care.”

The Red Cross is working with hospitals around-the-clock to meet the blood needs of patients – but can’t do it alone. To make an appointment, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS — 1-800-733-2767.

As a thank-you, those who come give blood, platelets or plasma Aug. 1-31, will get a $20 Amazon gift card by email. For details, visit RedCrossBlood.org/Help .

August blood donation opportunities in Northern Kentucky:

Boone County

• Florence : August 26: 1 p.m. – 6 p.m., Florence Mall, Mall Rd

• Hebron : August 22: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Delta Air Lines CVG-ACS, 2939 Terminal Dr

Kenton County

• Crestview Hills : August 23: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., Saints Center, 333 Thomas More Pkwy

American Red Cross

The post Red Cross appeals for blood donations as supply dips by 25% in wake of heat disruptions, seasonal decline appeared first on NKyTribune .