Blood bank needs urgent boost

BLOOD stock levels in the province are critically low.

According to the South African National Blood Services(SANBS), KZN had a 1.8day supply of blood on Friday and urged donors and community members to visit their nearest donor centre or mobile clinic to donate.

The blood bank requires a five day supply at all times to meet the demand and must collect about 3000 units of blood per day.

SANBS Public Relations Practitioner – Dennis Ngongoma has encouraged the public to take 30 minutes out of their busy schedules to visit a centre and make a donation.

‘People can even take time out of their lunch break to make a difference in the lives of a patient who desperately needs blood.

‘If you are between the ages of 16-65yrs, weigh more than 50kgs and live a sexually safe lifestyle, then you can visit our centre to donate,’ he said.

Mobile clinic dates and venues

18 April – Mtunzini 2pm-6pm

19 April – Mpact Paper Felixton 10am-3pm

20 April – Nkandla Hospital 9am-3.30pm

21 April – Empangeni High School 9am-2pm

22 April – Empangeni Sanlam Centre 10am-4pm

25 April – Richards Bay Christian School 9am-1pm

26 April – Catherine Booth Hospital 9.30am-2.30pm

28 April – Velangaye High School 9am-2.30pm

29 April – Richem Secondary School 9am-2pm