As South Africans prepare to go on holiday, the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) in Mbombela is urging locals to donate blood.

Without sufficient blood in stock, many patients that need it will be affected severely. SANBS is a non-profit organisation which relies on voluntary donors.

The strain on blood supply impacts patients that rely on transfusion, premature babies, children or adults with dangerously low iron levels, cancer patients, accident victims with serious injuries, and women who lose blood due to pregnancy, childbirth, or other gynecological complications.

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All blood groups are required to ensure sufficient supply for all patients in need.

“Unfortunately with the holidays, accidents lead to hospitals requiring more blood, and that’s where the collaboration between the community and SANBS comes in,” said donor relations practitioner Palesa Mazibuko.

“To supply safe and sufficient blood to hospitals we need about 3 000 units on a daily basis. Units are distributed to hospitals as required. We urge the community to assist us by donating blood at their nearest donor centre or mobile drive.”

Mazibuko said the organisation frequently sets up donor stations at shopping centres to make it easy for community members to donate blood.

“It may look like just a simple gazebo in a shopping center, but every visitor who stops by helps us save lives.”

To become a blood donor, one needs to be over the age of 16, weigh 50kg or more, and maintain a safe lifestyle.

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“Blood donation seems scary, but one unit has the potential to save up to three lives,” said Mazibuko.

For more information on where to donate, contact the SANBS toll-free number on 080 011 9031.