Critically low blood stock in the country
There is only enough blood available in the country for one day.
While we are celebrating this Festive Season, our hospitals are experiencing blood shortages owing to critically low blood stock levels.
This means that should there not be adequate blood available, you could be at risk of losing a loved one who might need a lifesaving blood transfusion or you yourself could run the risk. Without your donated blood, many patients are in danger of losing their lives.
Collections in the country continue to drop drastically during this Festive Season, resulting in a daily average of about five days’ blood being available. Currently there is only enough blood available in the country for one day.
This is far less than the five-day stock required to be collected by the SANBS to ensure that the country’s demand for safe and adequate blood is met.
SANBS needs to collect 3 000 units of blood a day to meet the country’s demand.
This is a plea to all South Africans who meet the minimum requirements to commit to donating blood, especially at this very difficult period. This act of kindness can save up to three lives.
Minimum requirements to be a donor:
• Be between the ages of 16 and years
• Weigh more than 50kg
• Be in good health
• Live a sexually safe lifestyle
How to find the nearest donor centre
Contact 0800 11 9031 or visit www.sanbs.org.za. You also can find them on facebook.com/SANBS and twitter @theSANBS.
About the SANBS:
SANBS is a non-profit organisation that provides an essential service within South Africa. It is rated among the best in the world in the provision of blood and blood products, as well as in relation to the research and training provided. SANBS operates across all of South Africa, with the exclusion of the Western Cape. SANBS is regarded as a major role-player in providing support to countries in the SADC region.
