Blood stocks critically low
There has been an unexpectedly poor turnout of donors in recent weeks.
THE South African National Blood Service is in urgent need of blood.
Stocks are at a critical level, with between 1.5 -1.9 days supply on hand, as opposed to the required five days. This critical blood shortage has resulted in SANBS requesting all hospitals and medical staff to cut back on planned operations.
There has been an unexpectedly poor turnout of donors in recent weeks, which has had a great impact on blood collections. The upcoming holidays will further impact number of donors who turn out to donate blood.
The SANBS is asking all eligible and current donors to make blood donation their highest priority. Remember, you never know when you or your loved one may also need this precious life resource.
Those who meet the minimum requirements to give the gift of life are urged to visit their nearest blood donation centre as soon as they possibly can. The requirements are:
o Aged between 16 and 65 years
o Weigh 50kg or more
o Good health
o Lead a sexually safe lifestyle
To find out where your nearest donor centre is, visit www.sanbs.org.za, call toll free 0800 11 9031 or sms your NAME and POSTAL CODE of the area you live in to 31454 and SANBS will sms you details.
