The Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) has appealed to members of the public to donate blood to mitigate the critical shortage of type O-negative blood, as a 5-day blood stock supply is currently remaining.
‘As winter sets in and the school holidays are in full swing, we experience many challenges in maintaining our blood stock supply,’ said Marike Carli, WCBS public relations manager.
Also read: City Health records surge in high blood pressure cases
‘We always aim to have a 5-day blood stock supply; however, we are currently experiencing a critical shortage in O-negative as we only have a 3-day supply left,’ Carli added.
Because of these circumstances, Carli has called upon the public to donate blood during ‘this challenging time’, as reported by IOL.
‘We urge our community of blood donors to unleash the heroes within them, as one donation can save up to three lives,’ said Carli.
‘If you’re between 16 and 75 years old, weigh 50kg or more, are in good general health and lead a safe lifestyle, you can donate blood. We encourage all donors who haven’t donated recently to find their nearest blood donation clinic and continue their life-saving journey,’ Carli added.
Carli stated that as a token of appreciation, every donor would receive a ‘pair of hero-inspired socks’ that symbolises the warmth and comfort donors provide to patients in need in July.
‘As we continue with our hero theme in July, not all heroes wear capes; you too can be a lifesaver. We are celebrating blood donors as the unsung heroes. Regardless of your background or profession, anyone can be a hero by saving lives through blood donation,’ said Carli.
Also read:
Western Cape Blood Service highlights high school donor heroes
Picture: Karolina Kaboompics / Pexels