Urgent appeal for blood donations as SABS stock levels are severely compromised
The SANBS has less than two days of stock and desperately needs donations.
The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) appeals to all South Africans to donate blood urgently because stock levels are extremely low.
The SANBS reports that group O is below two days’ coverage. The last two weeks leading to the Easter weekend significantly affected blood donations and collections, resulting in a shortage of blood supply in the country.
The school holidays also had a larger-than-usual impact because most blood collections are at schools and universities.
“We are facing an unprecedented shortage of blood supply, and we urgently need the help of all South Africans to overcome this crisis. The need for blood is constant, and if we do not get blood stock levels to at least three days’ coverage, we might need to continue with the current cutbacks on all non-emergency cases until the situation stabilises and improves,” said Thandi Mosupye, the SANBS senior manager: marketing, communication and brand.
Donating blood is a safe process that only takes about 30 minutes. The SANBS urged those who are healthy and meet the eligibility criteria to visit their nearest donation centres and donate blood today.
The SANBS has set up blood donation drives across the country to make it easier for people to donate. For more information on where to donate blood, visit the SANBS website or call the toll-free number 0800 11 90 31.
“We urge all South Africans to join us in this critical effort to ensure we have an adequate blood supply to save lives,” Mosupye pleaded.
Every donation counts and can make a significant impact in saving lives.
