SANBS battles critically low blood stocks
With less than three days blood stock currently on hand, the SANBS once again calls on donors to rally behind this lifesaving mission.
The impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on hospitals has stretched blood supplies in the country. Recently, the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) has experienced poor collection due to, among other challenges, low donor turnout to mobile blood drives and donor centres.
“While we continue to contend with declining blood stocks, the demand from patients has not slowed down. Lifesaving surgeries and the treatment of other illnesses still demand that we consistently supply much-needed blood products. The situation is critical and could become dire if we fail to collect sufficient Group O blood,” warned Dr Karin van den Berg, SANBS Medical Director in a recent statement.
With less than three days blood stock currently on hand, the SANBS once again calls on donors to rally behind this mission to help save thousands of lives.
“Our donors have always been incredibly generous during times of struggle and we need their help to ensure that our blood supply stabilises once more,” she said.
Hospital demand for blood has been at its highest and the pressure from low donor turnout has not helped the situation at all. This is why, where possible, the SANBS has extended its donor centres’ operating hours for the foreseeable future, to allow donors more hours in the day to make their donations.
“We commend the donors who have kept us going despite the current social uncertainties and general social anxiety that plagues many people at the moment. We especially implore donors with O-positive and O-negative blood to make their donation as they can make the biggest immediate difference to the situation we face right now,” Dr Karin concluded.
Dawn Matsetela, Clinic Supervisor of the SANBS Westgate Donor Centre is subsequently pleading with the Roodepoort community in particular to visit their centre to donate blood and help save lives.
“We have been exceptionally quiet for the past two years. We know Covid has made things difficult, but we have done our bit to make sure this centre is safe for all. We are now asking all community members to bring their generous part and we will do everything we can to protect them as safety is our first priority. We need these donors, now more than ever,” he said
Donors who are ready and willing to roll up their sleeves and lend an arm can find out more about where they can donate blood by visiting www.sanbs.org.za or by calling 080 011 9031.
The SANBS Westgate Donor Centre is open from Mondays to Fridays, 09:00 – 17:00 and 08:00 – 14:00 on Saturdays and Sundays.
The SANBS is, furthermore, appealing to the public to make venues available for blood drives. Suitable venues include spaces accessible and open to the public. If you are able to host a blood drive, visit www.sanbs.org.za to book a blood drive and to see how else you can get involved.
One blood donation gives recipients a second chance with their loved ones. Another Christmas to remember, another summer holiday at the beach, another birthday celebration.
To become a blood donor, you must:
• Be between the ages of 16 and 75 years.
• Weigh 50kg or more.
• Lead a healthy lifestyle.
• Consider your blood safe for transfusion to a patient.
• Commit to donating blood regularly.
Don’t let South Africa run out of safe blood. Donate today.
