This is how you can save lives
The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) has asked people to donate blood to increase the "alarmingly low blood stock levels".
“Traditionally, the month of September is a difficult time for the SANBS, owing to preliminary exams and preparation towards the final quarter of the year,” said Vanessa Raju, communications manager for the service.
“As a result, blood drives at schools and universities are generally not possible at this time of year.
“This, together with poor turnouts at companies and organisational blood drives, has placed immense pressure on the blood stock levels.”
The blood service needs to collect 3 000 units of blood every day, maintaining a five-day stock level.
Raju said the SANBS has only 1.6 days of stock at the moment and warned of a “major crisis” as the festive season approaches.
“We have implemented a cut-back approach, where we are not able to meet the requests by doctors,” she added.
”What this means is, should a doctor request four units of blood, SANBS may be able to offer only two units, and this approach will continue until the blood stocks recover.”
If you would like to donate blood, you need to:
- be between the ages of 16 and 65 years;
- weigh 50kg or more;
- be in good health;
- lead a sexually safe lifestyle.
Benoni residents can donate blood at the SANBS centre on the corner of 14th Avenue and Aerodrome Drive.
