Blood Availability at Critical Levels – The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) is experiencing yet another difficult time with regards to blood collections. Almost 40 % of the blood SANBS collect come from schools and universities, but due to the holidays they are unable to host these blood drives.

This together with many people who also take a break, the blood stock levels are impacted significantly.

Currently, the blood stock at a national level is 1.5 days. 

“SANBS needs to maintain a stock level of 5 days at all times by collecting 3000 units of blood per day to meet the demand of the thousands of patients who are reliant on blood transfusions for their survival.” – Vanessa Raju, Communication Manager of SANBS

The organisation is appealing to members of the public who meet the minimum blood donor requirements, especially blood donors who may have missed a blood donation to help boost supplies by committing to donating blood.

 In order to become a blood donor you must:

• Weigh at least 50kg
• Be between the ages of 16-65
• Lead a safe sexual lifestyle
• Be in general good health; and
• Consider your blood safe for transfusion to a patient.

If you wish to find out more on where to donate and more on becoming a donor, please do not hesitate to call us on 0800 11 90 31 or email: customerservice@sanbs.org.za  or visit us on : www.sanbs.org.za