The American Red Cross has declared an emergency blood shortage as the blood supply fell nearly 25% in June.
Officials say there is now a critical need for blood donors to help ensure patients receive lifesaving medical care without delay. The shortage is especially serious for types O positive and B negative blood.
The blood supply is shrinking just as hospitals have entered what’s often called the summer trauma season.It’s the time of year when emergency rooms often see a surge in patients with serious injuries from car crashes to outdoor recreation.
A steep decline in blood donations since the end of May has created a growing gap between supply and patient need. In addition, busy schedules and the seasonal loss of school blood drives are driving the decline which could put patient care at risk if not reversed.The Grand Rapids area recently had a couple blood drives, but if you missed them, you can still donate.
The Red Cross says the most important way to help end the blood shortage is to book an appointment to give blood now by using the Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS.
