Blood supplies low. Blood service providers ask for donations. Here is how to help

A nonprofit blood service provider is calling for people to donate blood due to an emergency blood shortage.

According to a press release from nonprofit blood service provider Vitalant, the shortage was exacerbated by the Fourth of July holiday week.

Vitalant also said a seasonal drop in blood donations has been ongoing since May that has sharply reduced the available blood supply for patients by more than 25%, resulting in less than three-day supply of most blood types.

“Maintaining an adequate blood supply is critical to helping patients after accidents and other emergencies and to treat cancer and other chronic diseases,” the press release states.

“If not enough blood is available at any given moment, delays in patient care can have life-threatening consequences, said Dr. Ralph Vassallo,  Vitalant chief medical and scientific office. “By making an appointment today and donating tomorrow, next week, even a couple weeks from now, you become a lifeline for patients.”

Fewer donors are available due to summer vacations – and fewer organizations host blood drives – yet the need for blood can also go up during what many hospitals refer to as “trauma season,” when outdoor activities tend to rise along with accidents and injuries, according to the press release.

“All blood types are needed, but especially type O, the most transfused blood type. O-negative can be used to help any patient in an emergency and O-positive can support anyone with a positive blood type.

“Platelet donations play a vital role for cancer patients and those undergoing open-heart surgeries and transplants. Platelets are constantly needed and must be used within a week of donation to ensure the best possible patient outcomes. Thousands of donation appointments are available nationwide in the next two weeks.”

To learn more and make an appointment to give at vitalant.org, download and use the Vitalant app or call 877-25-VITAL (877-258-4825).   Learn more at vitalant.org.