The American Red Cross continues to sound the alarm over an emergency blood shortage.
Red Cross Regional Communications Manager Samantha Solberg says hospitals are already feeling the impact as demand for blood continues to outpace donations…
“Currently, the Red Cross distributions to hospitals are nearly 3,500 units higher per week than we expected.”
She says summer is traditionally one of the most challenging times of the year to maintain the blood inventory, with several factors contributing to the seasonal slowdown…
“You know, the school year has ended, and that brings an end to many school blood drives. In fact, we’re getting about 38,000 fewer donations from young donors from April to June.”
Solberg says vacations and busy summer schedules also keep many regular donors from giving blood, making it even more important for eligible donors to schedule an appointment now.
(content: courtesy MNN)
