Blood crisis: SANBS in desperate need of blood

According to the South African National Blood Service (SANBS), the blood supply in KwaZulu-Natal is about to run out, with only half a day’s stock available right now – prompting a call for donors to step forward urgently.

“The blood stock in KZN is dangerously low. We don’t have blood that can last for the rest of the day – today. The blood centre is currently at 0.9, which is 177 units of blood, and we need all blood groups to boost the stock,” said Sifiso Khoza, regional marketing manager for the SANBS.

“A healthy blood stock in the province is 500 units of blood a day, but we’re down to 177 units right now, which means we don’t have enough blood to last even for today. And as much as we need all blood types, blood group O is in demand as it is universal and can be transferable to all patients in need.

“The situation is critical. We are therefore appealing to residents of KwaZulu-Natal – active donors, potential donors and lapsed donors – to help bolster the regional blood stock,” he added.

“There are many people in life-threatening situations who require blood right now. It’s the cancer patients who need regular blood supply, it’s the mother giving birth, it’s those who have been in accidents and it’s anyone suffering complications during major surgery.

“If you are able to donate blood, please do so as soon as you can. The blood centre would like to thank you in advance for your donation: it’s not just about donating blood, it’s about saving people’s lives,” he concluded.

To find out more about donating blood and to locate your nearest SANBS donor centre in KwaZulu-Natal, visit sanbs.org.za or call 0800119031

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