Call for donors to alleviate blood shortage
Stocks of group O blood were standing at a mere 1.5 days’ supply as of November 1.
The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) has revealed that there is a critical shortage of blood across the country.
Blood stocks in the country are dangerously low, with group O stocks standing at just 1.5 days’ supply, or 1 473 units, as of November 1.
National marketing manager for the SANBS, Silungile Mlambo, says Gauteng has only around 1.5 days’ worth of blood left.
He says it is considered a crisis when blood stocks dip below the two days’ availability mark.
A healthy blood stock is considered to be one of at least 3 000 units or five days’ supply.
“The blood is critical for cancer patients and women in childbirth, who constitute by far the greatest groups of people requiring blood transfusions,” says Mlambo.
“So many people in life-threatening situations require blood.
“It’s what saves a haemorrhaging mother’s life, so that she can raise and love the baby she has just brought into the world.
“It’s what saves someone suffering complications during major surgery, and helps cancer patients endure and survive treatment.
“And that’s the point – it’s not just blood, it’s saving people’s lives through a simple, easy donation.”
Mlambo appeals to all South Africans, whether active donors, lapsed donors or potential donors, to go to their local donor centre and donate blood to bolster the national stock.
To find out more about donating blood and to locate your nearest SANBS donor centre, visit sanbs.org.za or call 0800 11 90 31.
Local residents can visit the blood bank at Springs Mall or contact them on 011 362 2282.
