Red Cross Asks For More Donors Of Most Needed Blood Types

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – The American Red Cross is putting a call out for more donors of the most needed blood types.

Red Cross officials said they are facing a looming shortage of O negative, B negative and A negative blood to give in emergency situations.

The O negative type is particularly valuable as it is the universal blood type and can be transfused to patients with any blood type.

The Red Cross is also encouraging donors to donate double red cells. Donating double red cells means two units of red cells are collected while most of the plasma and platelets are returned to the donor.

The Red Cross is also asking for platelet and AB plasma donors.

According to the American Red Cross, donations in the Red Cross North Central Blood Services Region have been 1,734 fewer per month in June and July this year than the previous 10 months.

Blood donation appointments can be scheduled by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-27677) or visit the Red Cross online.