As the festive season begins, thousands of people are expected to be injured or require treatment.
These patients will all require blood to have a second chance at life. The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) hosts regular blood drives across the country, and usually collects a significant amount of units of blood. However, high demand from hospitals has left Type O stocks lower than normal.
Type O is considered the ‘universal blood group’ and is compatible with all other blood groups, making it safe for transfusion to any patient. “We are experiencing a high demand of blood from hospitals and are in serious need of blood donations across the country. Our Group O blood stocks are approaching a low,” explained Silungile Mlambo, SANBS Chief Marketing Officer. “We are appealing to all South Africans to donate a unit of blood in aid of those who may need blood or blood products during this period.” There is generally an increase in blood usage during November and December, and SANBS will be hosting regular blood drives around the country with extended hours, as well as additional weekend drives.
Residents of Vryheid reacted positively to the desperate plea from SANBS, and donated blood at the Klipkerk on Friday. “Blood donations go beyond just the person who receives blood – it’s not just blood, it’s saving a nation,” concluded Mlambo.
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