The South African National Blood Services (SANBS) has announced that they are currently experiencing a severe shortage of blood and has urged all existing blood donors and prospective donors to do their bit to help save lives by donating blood.
According to SANBS spokesperson Lebo Seatlholo, the winter season has had a negative impact on the number of blood donors in and around the country.
“The current blood stock level is low and it is expected to hit rock bottom if we are unable to increase collections.
“This may result in the company requesting all hospitals and medical personnel to hold back on planned surgeries and that is a situation we are trying to avoid,” says Seatlholo.
She adds that blood type O is the most affected, because there is a high demand for it.
According to Seatlholo, blood type O is a universal blood type that can be given to patients of any other blood group in cases of an emergency.
She appeals to South Africans who meet the minimum requirements to donate blood at any of the SANBS centres.
“Anyone who is between the ages of 16 and 65 and in good health is welcome to donate.
“Candidates must also weigh more than 50 kg and live a sexually safe lifestyle.
“Your one unit of blood can save up to three lives,” says Seatlholo.
