Red Cross Warns Of Severe Blood Shortage
The American Red Cross has issued a warning about a critical blood shortage exacerbated by this summer’s extreme heat. The high temperatures have disrupted nearly 100 blood drives last month, either by reducing attendance or causing cancellations. Since July 1, the national blood supply has decreased by over 25%, according to the organization.
Typically, blood donations decline during the summer due to vacations and holidays, but the Red Cross reported that the severe heat in July led to a shortfall of more than 19,000 donations. Donated blood is essential for surgeries, childbirth, and treating conditions such as pregnancy complications, traumatic injuries, cancer, and blood disorders.
Melissa Destross, a registered nurse in labor and delivery in Detroit, expressed the critical need for blood, noting the impact of having insufficient supplies during emergencies and complex deliveries. “It’s vital to have blood available for patients in dire situations, like new mothers facing severe hemorrhage,” she said.
The Red Cross is particularly urging donations of type O blood, which is frequently in short supply. Type O positive is the most common blood type, while type O negative is essential for emergency transfusions. Dr. Barry Siegfried, Medical Director for the Red Cross Michigan Region, emphasized the importance of type O blood in trauma care and encouraged all donors to help replenish hospital supplies.
Individuals interested in donating can locate a local blood drive or schedule an appointment at a donation center by visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED-CROSS. As an incentive, those who donate by August 31 will receive a $20 Amazon gift card.
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