Help SANBS reach blood stock target
JOHANNESBURG – The SANBS has launched a campaign in hopes to alleviate the shortage.
With just weeks to go until the start of the festive season, the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) launched an awareness campaign that seeks to drive blood donation in anticipation of the busy holiday season.
There are various donor centres across Joburg-North with one being located at The Colony Centre, Craighall.
CEO Ravi Reddy admitted that this year has seen concerning fluctuations in blood stocks throughout the year and hopes that donors will help them reach five days’ stock which is needed to ensure a sustainable supply for the country.
“Blood donations in South Africa have always been low, considering that less than 1% of the population actively gives blood. Now, due to Covid-19 and lockdown, the number has declined further in the past 18 months. We hope that this campaign, which presents a new perspective on the need for blood, will drive an increase in donations,” Reddy said.
The awareness campaign commenced on November 15, using a 360 approach to reach maximum audiences across the country through the use of radio, billboards and the various SANBS social media platforms.
Donating blood literally means saving lives and Reddy said the SANBS is grateful to its blood donors, partners and service providers for their continued support through these trying times.
“We hope this campaign will inspire and encourage the public to include blood donation in their daily lives and to join in this lifesaving mission by becoming committed donors. At a time when we are unable to gather for much else, we can at least join forces for this common cause – giving the gift of life,” Reddy concluded.
To become a blood donor, you must:
- Be between the ages of 16 and 75 years
- Weigh 50kg or more
- Be in good health
- Lead a healthy lifestyle
- Consider your blood safe for transfusion to a patient.
Details: To find out more about where you can donate blood, visit www.sanbs.org.za or call 080 011 9031.
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