THE South African National Blood Service (SANBS) has been working hard to avoid a blood shortage.
However, with all efforts in place it seems the cold weather is keeping donors away.
Traditionally, the winter months are a difficult time due to schools and universities being on holiday and an increase in the flu virus. This places SANBS under immense pressure to collect safe and good quality blood products.
“SANBS needs to maintain a blood stock level of five days at all times by collecting 3,000 units per day to meet the demand of the thousands of patients who are reliant on blood transfusions for their survival. However at the moment we have only 1.5 days of blood stock available on a national level,” said Vanessa Raju, communications manager of SANBS.
SANBS appeals to people, particularly regular donors, not to miss out on their next donation date and to other members of the public who meet the minimum requirements to become a blood donor.
Minimum blood donor requirements: Between the age of 16 and 65 years; weigh 50kg or more; in good health; lead a sexually safe lifestyle
Contact 0800 11 90 31 to find the nearest fixed donor site.
