Local, regional blood banks in Washington seeking donors amid ‘critical’ shortages

SPOKANE, Wash. — Every two seconds, someone in the United States develops the need for life-saving blood, whether through an accident, illness or something else. In Washington state, however, meeting that demand is becoming increasingly difficult.

Blood banks in Washington state are facing “critical shortages” of blood, and the emergency blood supply in the state is dangerously low. According to the Washington state Department of Health (WDOH), shortages in type O, type Rh-negative and blood platelets are the most severe. Amid the shortage, health officials are asking anyone who is willing and able to donate blood to do so.

WDOH said blood donations dropped significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Local and regional blood banks are still feeling the effects because many regular donors aren’t donating as often. Rising rates of other illnesses, like the common cold, are also keeping people from donating.

Blood banks around the state worry they won’t be able to meet the need for blood during a large emergency. Because of this, anyone who is able to donate is encouraged to do so.

Appointments can be scheduled at any time and take approximately one hour, according to WDOH. You can learn more by visiting Northwest Blood Coalition members’ websites:

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