Donate blood during the holiday
SANBS said it had been hard hit by lockdown restrictions during 2021.
Khensani Mahlangu, the donor relations practitioner for SANBS, said it had mass cancellation for its blood drive, and anticipate subsequent shortages, notably in groups O and B.
“We have been able to still carry out some of our scheduled mobile drives. As the weeks continue, and with the relaxed limitations to movements, we are hoping to pick up on the mobile blood drives once more.”
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Mahlangu said as an organisation that is trusted to save lives, it is their role to ensure that the South African blood supply remains consistent.
SANBS reached out to the community at large to see if there is a possibility to host a blood drive in various areas in the coming weeks.
“We can assure you that our operations are safe, and we are adopting measures to ensure both staff and donor safety.”
These include supplies of alcohol-based antiseptic sprays and wet wipes, staff members wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times, and being trained in the correct way of wearing it, as well as the sterile cleaning and disposal thereof.
SANBS observes strict social distancing at its collection points; donor beds are kept two meters apart and all contact with nurses is kept to a minimum.
Mahlangu thanked and acknowledged all the community’s help and commitment.
“We value your partnership with us and we encourage you to consider hosting us again. Let us continue to work together to save lives,” she said. SANBS Lydenburg is situated at 53 Kantoor Street.
