SANBS asks the community to donate blood before the silly season
The community urged to donate blood as the stock is critically low, risking the lives of patients dependent on it.
The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) is requesting the community’s help to increase their stock levels to curb the strain on blood levels.
On November 29, SANBS released a statement in which they explained the current shortage of stock they are experiencing
Thabo Mboweni, the media specialist for SANBS, explained the new digital donor questionnaire was implemented on November 7, to make the process for donor registration more efficient. He noted the technical issues experienced with the implementation have since been resolved and stated ‘donors can look forward to an enhanced donor experience’. Since the implementation the blood service has however been struggling to keep the bloodstock up, currently, they are sitting at 1.8 days’ worth of supply, which pushes the blood to a critically low level.
“This blood shortage may affect the lives of numerous individuals reliant on blood transfusions…The strain on the blood supply impacts patients relying on blood transfusion and undermines the preparedness to handle unforeseen emergencies, creating an alarming ripple effect at healthcare facilities,” said Mboweni.
Thandi Mosupye, SANBS senior manager for marketing and communication, and Brand stated, “We are facing a critical shortage of blood and urgently call upon all South Africans to band together to get through this challenging period. The demand for blood remains constant, yet our current supply falls short of meeting this ongoing need. As we approach December, our donations are expected to decline due to the closures of workplaces and schools/ tertiaries. Should this decline continue, our ability to meet the needs of patients will be severely negatively impacted.”
Mboweni continued to say donating blood is a safe process that only takes 30 minutes to complete.
“SANBS urges all eligible and healthy individuals to visit their nearest donation site and contribute to this life-saving cause. Every donation matters and holds the power to save lives, and each contribution is a lifeline to someone desperately in need,” concluded Mboweni.
