KZN blood stocks critically low
This as the South African National Blood Service's (SANBS) stock levels are at a critical low of 2.1 days' supply.
BLOOD banks throughout the province remain under pressure to collect enough pints of blood to stabilise stock levels ahead of the festive season.
This as the South African National Blood Service’s (SANBS) stock levels are at a critical low of 2.1 days’ supply.
SANBS must have a five-day supply on hand at all times to sustain the province’s need for blood.
Going into the busy festive season, the need for life-saving blood transfusions usually increases compared to blood donations, and SANBS will need the public’s help to increase its stocks.
To allow more donors to visit the Richards Bay Blood Donor Centre at Boardwalk Inkwazi Shopping Centre this weekend, the centre will be open on Sunday from 10am to 3pm, and aims to collect at least 70 units of blood.
With limited access to mobile blood drive venues owing to Covid-19, and the closure of schools and universities, the blood service’s ability to meet the required 3 500 daily donations is constrained.
In an attempt to increase blood stocks and continue saving lives, the SANBS in KZN will operate on extended hours each day, allowing donors more time to make their donations throughout the day.
All potential and existing blood donors that are due to donate are urged to visit a SANBS donor centre or mobile clinic to give just one unit of blood – which can save up to three lives.
Donor centres are still adhering to strict Covid-19 infection prevention protocols to ensure the safety of both donors and staff members.
Blood is essential all year round, and SANBS depends on regular donations to keep blood stocks at optimal levels to help meet demand.
