The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) is still urging the public to donate blood during the coronavirus pandemic.
According to donor relations practitioner Trude Gaarekoe less people are donating blood since the lockdown was implemented.
She further stressed a Boksburg blood bank did not reach its target during a mobile blood drive at Pick ‘n Pay Family Towers on April 25.
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“We usually receive more donations over a weekend, but we only raised eight units of blood out of a target of 15 units.
“Our mobile drives are very visible and accessible, but people may be too preoccupied with buying essentials to donate blood at the moment. It is important that people still donate blood. We need blood and plasma products every day to support people in hospitals, cancer patients, people with blood diseases and those in need of blood transfusions and surgeries,” Gaarekoe pointed out.
She emphasised that it is safe to donate blood.
“The SANBS has taken precautionary measures to ensure everyone who utilises their facilities is protected.
“We are assessing donors at all entry points to our facilities and mobile sites and all sites have been equipped with additional antiseptic sprays and alcohol-based wipes.
“Donors and staff members are our first priority and we want to keep them safe,” Garrekoe added.
The donor centre at the East Rand Mall remains open.
The operating hours are 8am to 6pm on weekdays and 8am to 2pm on weekends.
Donors are advised to use entrance three.
