Facing Shortage, Red Cross Issues Emergency Call For Blood

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- The American Red Cross says a significant shortage of blood and platelets has prompted an emergency call for donations.

According to the Red Cross, blood and platelet donations have fallen short for the past few months – about 39,000 fewer donations than what's needed. The organization says less than a five-day supply of blood and platelets is on shelves.

Red Cross believes Independence Day vacations, and summer travel in general, may have caused regular donors to postpone donations.

"Right now, blood products are being distributed to hospitals faster than donations are coming in, which is why we are making this emergency request for donations," Sue Thesenga, Communications Manager of the North Central Blood Services Region, said. "Donations are urgently needed now to meet the needs of hospital patients in the coming days and weeks. If you've thought about giving blood and helping to save lives, now is the time to do it. It's the blood donations on the shelves that help save lives when an emergency occurs."

To encourage donations, Red Cross is extending hours at many donation sites to allow more donors to make appointments. All blood types are needed.

To schedule an appointment to donate, use the free Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

The American Red Cross says 38 percent of the population is eligible to donate, but less than 10 percent actually donate.

Every two seconds in the United States, blood and platelets are needed to respond to emergencies, according to the organization.