SANBS continues to battle critically low blood stocks

SANBS calls on donors to rally behind the lifesaving mission of donating blood

September 30, 2021

Chrisuné Vermeulen 2 minutes read

The impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on hospitals has stretched blood supplies in the country.

Recently, the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) has experienced poor collection due to, among other challenges, low donor turnout to mobile blood drives and donor centres.

“While we continue to contend with declining blood stocks, the demand from patients has not slowed down. Lifesaving surgeries and the treatment of other illnesses still demands that we consistently supply much-needed blood products. The situation is critical and could become dire if we fail to collect sufficient Group O blood,” warned Dr Karin van den Berg, SANBS Medical Director.

With less than three (3) days of bloodstock currently on hand, the SANBS once again calls on donors to rally behind this lifesaving mission to help save thousands of lives.

“Our donors have always been incredibly generous during times of struggle and we need their help to ensure that our blood supply stabilises once more,” said van den Berg.

Hospital demand for blood has been at its highest and the pressure from low donor turnout has not helped the situation at all.

This is why, where possible, the SANBS has extended its donor centres’ operating hours for the foreseeable future, to allow donors more hours in the day to make their donations.

Donors with O-positive and O-negative blood to make their donation as they can make the biggest immediate difference to the situation we face right now,” van den Berg concluded.

Donors who are ready and willing to roll up their sleeves and lend an arm can find out more about where they can donate blood by visiting www.sanbs.org.za or by calling 0800 11 90 31.

One blood donation gives recipients a second chance with their loved ones.

Another Christmas to remember, another summer holiday at the beach, another birthday celebration.

To become a blood donor, you must: