Blood Shortage: North Texans asked to give blood amid nationwide shortage

DALLAS – The American Red Cross said it is in need of blood donations across the country.

When natural disasters hit, like Hurricane Idalia, it puts a further strain on the supply.

One whole blood donation can save up to three lives.

The American Red Cross is once again in desperate need of blood donations. 

Nationwide, the blood supply has fallen by about 25%.

Blood type O is the most common type and O-negative is a universal donor.

She said donating only takes an hour out of your day.   

Strong donates blood three or four times a year, and has been giving blood for the last 20 years.

It’s also easier for more people to donate. 

Now, all potential donors are asked the same screening questions, regardless of their gender or sexual orientation. 

“I think it’s really important to recognize that there wouldn’t be a national shortage if we donated regularly,” Wiles said. “It’s one way we can make sure that hospitals and doctor and nurses and people are not in crisis.”