Story from redcross.org…
Louisville, KY., – Severe winter weather across the U.S. coupled with an influenza outbreak impacting 36 states, has caused the American Red Cross to reissue their emergency plea for blood and platelet donations. During the month of January, snow, ice and cold temperatures has caused the Red Cross to collect more than 14,000 fewer donations—resulting in Red Cross blood donations being distributed to hospitals faster than they are coming in.
With more cold weather and heavy snow predicted across the U.S., it is important that eligible individuals in areas unaffected by the weather make an appointment to give blood or platelets now. Patients in need of lifesaving blood products can’t wait until the weather improves this winter.
All eligible donors, especially platelet and blood donors with type O blood, are urgently needed to help restock the shelves for hospital patients. Donation appointments can be easily scheduled by using the free Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
