Blood donations in high demand after shortages due to Covid-19
‘’Blood stocks have dropped to critically low levels. The immediate impact is an inability to issue blood in emergencies and the possible loss of lives. We need healthy donors to give blood now,’' says SANBS.
Blood stock supplies have dropped to a critically low level, the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) reported and called for eligible donors to help increase stocks.
In September, the service reported that the Covid-19 restrictions had constrained blood donation supply, as places of blood collection such as schools and churches were closed to the public.
“We are experiencing high demand in our hospitals and we are in need of blood donations,’’ the service said.
“The immediate impact is an inability to issue blood in emergencies and the possible loss of lives. We need healthy donors to give blood now.’’
For the service to ensure that they make the most of the planned collection drives, it was calling for eligible donors to help reach the daily collection target of at least 4 000 units of blood.
“We are also asking leaders at companies, churches, universities and schools to also allow the blood service to better reach its donors by making venues available.’’
Elarduspark resident Carolin Garrett said she has been donating blood for more than 30 years.
“I would encourage people to donate blood because at least you do some good for the community. And it won’t cost you a cent.’’
Garrett is a universal donor blood type (O+) and said she eats healthy and did moderate exercises to keep fit as a blood donor.
She donates blood as a measure to try to save the lives of people in need of blood.
“Another reason is that it is good for your own blood cells to renew as a result of donation and lastly it is a good feeling to be able to save lives.’’
Kemisetso Khomo who has been donating blood for the past 11 years, said a lot of people were in need of blood supply.
“I am donating blood because my dad passed on and before we lost him he needed a blood transfusion, it is a real need to save someone’s life.’”
The minimum requirements to be a blood donor from the SANBS:
– You have to be between the ages of 16 and 75 years old, for first-time donors.
– Weigh a minimum of 50kg (Donating platelets you must weigh a minimum of 55kg).
– Must be in good health. Must lead a low-risk lifestyle.
– Consider your blood safe for transfusion.
– Have had a balanced meal within four hours of donating blood.
– Have not donated blood in the last 56 days (and platelets in the last 14 days.)
SANBS said people in the below criteria needed to ask for more information if:
– You have had surgery in the last six months or are due for an operation within the next six weeks.
– You are pregnant or breastfeeding your baby.
– You are on medication such as antibiotics.
– You have had cancer, heart disease, epilepsy, a bleeding disorder or any other chronic medical condition.
– You are involved in a “hazardous” occupation or sport eg. operating heavy machinery, flying a plane, scuba diving, working at heights, etc.
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