As we enter the last quarter of 2014, the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) said it has been experiencing critical shortages in recent weeks, and they warn that this could become worse over the festive season.
As we enter the last quarter of 2014, the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) said it has been experiencing critical shortages in recent weeks, and they warn that this could become worse over the festive season.
In the Eastern Cape, 25% of blood is collected from schools and tertiary institutions, so with exams coming up and a long break ahead, they are continuously running short of life saving units of blood, they said in a media statement.
They are counting on people who are due to donate, as well as those who meet the minimum requirements, to find the time to make a difference to the lives of others and donate blood.
“We are grateful to the many who always heed our appeal for blood but often crises are inevitable if donors are not available to donate,” SANBS spokesperson Vanessa Raju said.
“These crises often occur due to fewer Group O blood collections. Group O blood donors are known as universal donors and their blood can be given to patients of any other blood group, making this the most sought-after blood type.”
To join the “DO nation” and become a blood donor you need to:
•Be between the ages of 16 and 65
•Weigh more than 50kg
•Be in good health
•Consider your blood safe for transfusion to a patient
•Lead a sexually safe lifestyle
For more information contact our call centre on 0800 11 9031 or visit our website on www.sanbs.org.za.
