Critical blood shortages
If you wish to find out more on where to donate and more on becoming a donor, please call 0800 11 90 31 or email customerservice@sanbs.org.za
![](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/63/2014/07/sanbs-blood.jpg)
The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) is facing critical blood shortages with just two days of blood supply left.
As a result the SANBS is appealing to all to come forth and make a donation, as every drop counts.
The dire shortages come as a result of being unable to host blood drives at schools and universities as they are closed for Easter holidays.
Many people have also taken breaks from donating blood and as a result the blood stock levels are impacted significantly with a national level of two days and a provincial level of one and a half days.
According to Communications Manager, Vanessa Raju, ” SANBS needs to maintain a stock level of five days at all times by collecting 3000 units of blood per day to meet the demand of thousands of patients who need blood.”
SANBS urges the public to make vital blood donations.
In order to become a blood donor one must:
-Be between the ages of 16 and 65.
-Weigh at least 50 kilograms.
-Lead a safe sexual lifestyle.
-Be in general good health.
If you wish to find out more on where to donate and more on becoming a donor, please call 0800 11 90 31 or email customerservice@sanbs.org.za