Blood Banks to continue during lockdown period
Blood donors are urged to continue giving the gift of life during the lockdown, to help save lives.
As South Africans brace themselves for the 21-day lockdown, the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) is bracing itself for a critical period.
As an essential service, SANBS will continue operating during the lockdown period and has appealed to donors for support. Donor centres in Newcastle and Ladysmith will also be among those open with extended operating hours, to accommodate social distancing measures.
In a press release issued after President, Cyril Ramaphosa’s lockdown announcement, SANBS said it had taken precautionary measures to ensure the people who utilise its facilities were protected.
“We are assessing donors at all entry points to our facilities and mobile sites. We have also equipped all sites with additional antiseptic sprays and alcohol-based wipes,” read the release.
Jackie Thomson, SANBS’ Medical Director added that trained healthcare practitioners operating in the field had been equipped with the necessary information, to identify symptoms possibly indicating a Covid-19 infection.
“Should a donor not be feeling well, or exhibit any flu-like symptoms or signs of infection, they will not be permitted access our facilities.”
The extended Donor Centre hours are 8am to 7pm on weekdays, and 8am to 2pm on weekends. Centres at malls will also remain accessible and mobile drives will be set up at large grocery stores to accommodate donors.
For an appointment, contact your nearest donor centre directly to avoid any queuing at the door.
ALSO READ: Donors pour in at SANBS blood drive
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