American Red Cross Declares National Blood Crisis, Urges Immediate Donations

Park Hills, Mo. (KFMO) - The American Red Cross has declared only the second national blood crisis in its history, warning that blood donations have fallen to a four-year summer low and patients may already be feeling the effects of the shortage.

Despite thousands of people responding since the emergency was declared earlier this month, donations continue to fall short of hospital demand. The organization is urging eligible donors to give blood immediately to help stabilize the nation's supply.

Tara Lincoln, Account Manager with the American Red Cross, says the blood supply has reached a critical point.

All blood types are urgently needed, but the shortage is especially severe for Type O blood. The Red Cross says it has begun limiting distribution of Type O blood products to hospitals because supplies have become critically low. The inventory of Type O positive blood has now dropped below a one-day supply.

According to the Red Cross, several factors have contributed to the ongoing shortage, including extreme heat, poor air quality and widespread foodborne illnesses that have reduced donor turnout during the summer months. At the same time, hospitals continue to require blood for trauma patients, surgeries, cancer treatments and individuals with chronic illnesses.

The American Red Cross is encouraging anyone who is eligible to make an appointment to donate blood as soon as possible. Appointments can be scheduled by visiting RedCrossBlood.org and finding a blood drive in your area.