The American Red Cross for Minnesota and the Dakotas declares blood crisis due to shortage
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This summer, blood donations have reached a four-year low, worsening the ongoing emergency blood shortage.
In early July, the American Red Cross declared a national "blood crisis" as the number of donations has not kept pace with hospital demand. Factors contributing to this crisis include extreme heat, poor air quality, and widespread foodborne illnesses, all of which the Red Cross said have contributed to lower donor turnout this season.
“It's the most extreme situation that we’ve found ourselves in,” said Brice Johnson, CEO of the American Red Cross for Minnesota and the Dakotas. “This is only the second blood crisis that we have declared in the Red Cross's history, so that’s significant.”
The Red Cross reported a 25 percent decrease in blood donations in June. While a drop in donations during the summer months is typically expected due to vacations and school breaks, Johnson noted that this decline is particularly concerning.
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Johnson emphasized the importance of guaranteeing that blood products are available for a diverse range of patients, including those in trauma situations, undergoing surgeries, in maternity wards, and cancer patients who depend on blood transfusions.
“They all need blood to function, and so we're just encouraging people to roll up a sleeve and come out and donate that unit of blood,” he said.
Only about three percent of eligible blood donors actually donate. The Red Cross is requesting donations of all blood types, but there is an urgent need for O negative and O positive blood. According to Johnson, half of the population has one of these blood types, making them beneficial for the greatest number of patients. These blood types are also crucial during emergencies and trauma care.
Due to the recent decline in supply, the Red Cross is now limiting the distribution of type O blood products to hospitals, as their supply has fallen below a one-day reserve.
“Blood products have a shelf life. It's not something that we can manufacture or stockpile,” Johnson said. “It's not like we can collect a bunch of blood in the fall or the winter and save it for the next summer. The shelf life for platelets and plasma is even shorter, so we are only able to supply those products to hospitals in real time.”
The Red Cross is calling on community members to donate blood. Donors can schedule appointments for blood or platelet donations by visiting the Red Cross website or calling 1-800-733-2767.
Blood donors can donate every 56 days, while platelet donors can donate up to twice per month. Before donating, contact the Red Cross to confirm your eligibility.
