Blood stocks in the red
Nationally, the situation is as bleak, with only two days’ stock level on hand.
Blood supply in KwaZulu-Natal has dropped to crisis levels.
Only one-and-a-half days’ worth of blood stocks are available at present, with holiday periods wreaking havoc on donations received by the South African National Blood Service (SANBS).
SANBS communications manager, Vanessa Raju explained the crisis further.
“SANBS needs to maintain a stock level of five days at all times, by collection 3 000 units of blood per day to meet the demand of the thousands of patients who are reliant on blood transfusions for their survival.”
Nationally, the situation is as bleak, with only two days’ stock level on hand.
SANBS has launched an urgent appeal to residents who meet the minimum blood donor requirements, to donate blood and help bring the stocks up to the needed level.
Regular donors are also urged to make a contribution.
In order to become a blood donor, one must:
· Weigh at least 50 kilogrammes;
· Be between the ages of 16 and 65;
· Lead a safe sexual lifestyle;
· Be in general good health; and
· Consider your blood safe for transfusion to a patient.
Locally, the Newcastle Blood Donor Centre has extended its hours from 9am until 6pm between April 9 and April 30.
Mobile clinics have also been set up outside Rage at the Newcastle Mall, and at the Amajuba Mall.
For more information, call SANBS on 080 011 9031, email customerservice@sanbs.org.za or visit the webpage at www.sanbs.org.za
