National blood shortage — more donors needed

The fast-spreading Omicron variant is the latest complication forcing blood drives to be cancelled, thereby limiting the supply of life-saving donations.

Combined with extreme weather events across the country, these cancellations mean Vitalant, which serves 900 hospitals across 28 states, is now experiencing a historic, two-year low blood supply. Donations at Vitalant fell short by more than 4,500 donations in December, and that trend has continued into January.

The American Red Cross said it, “is facing a national blood crisis — its worst blood shortage in over a decade, posing a concerning risk to patient care.”

All eligible donors, especially those with the most transfused blood type O, are critically needed to make appointments now.

To make an appointment or for more information, visit vitalant.org or call 877-25-VITAL. Donors must feel well on the day of their donation.

Like the COVID-19 vaccine, there’s no waiting period to donate for those who receive a seasonal flu vaccine if all other eligibility requirements are met.