Urgent appeal for blood donations as supply runs low
The national blood service strives for five days' worth of supply to ensure that it meets the demand of the country.
THE South African National Blood Service (SANBS) is making an appeal for blood donations as current supplies are very low.
Also read: World Blood Donor Day – SANBS responds to most frequently asked questions
The national blood service said on social media that in order to meet the demands and ensure patients all over the country can get crucial blood transfusions, they strive for a five-day supply of each blood type. The group stated that because of the help of donors and staff, blood is safely taken, tested and sent where it is most needed.
Current stock levels
Sister Annalyn Daniels, who manages the Bluff Towers SANBS Centre, said that her branch is facing similar issues.
“We only have 1.7 days’ worth of O group blood right now,” said Daniels.
She added that O-group donors are often targeted as their blood works for transfusions for all blood types.
The current challenges
Daniels said that it’s been hard to meet the daily collection goals.
“We have to collect 13 units of whole blood and four units of plasma per day. Weekdays are the most challenging days because there are not that many people inside the mall, making it hard for us even with our regular donors,” explained Daniels.
How to support
SANBS is encouraging Durban South residents to visit the Bluff Towers branch and help get supplies back up. They highlighted that one blood donation can save as many as three lives.
The Bluff Towers SANBS Centre is open:
- Monday to Friday: 08:00 – 17:00
- Saturday and Sunday: 08:00 – 15:00
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