The American Red Cross says the nation’s blood supply has improved in recent months, but officials are continuing to encourage donations as hospitals maintain a constant need for blood products.
Laura McGuire, a spokesperson for the Red Cross, says the organization has recovered from a recent blood shortage but remains vulnerable to disruptions caused by severe weather and other events.
“The need is constant. We know that we were just coming out of a blood crisis. The blood supply is still very vulnerable. We know that hurricane season runs until the end of November and weather can really have any impact on the blood supply,” McGuire said.
The Red Cross says maintaining a steady inventory is critical because blood products have a limited shelf life and are needed daily for surgeries, trauma care, cancer treatments and other medical procedures.
McGuire says donor participation has helped the organization reach a key inventory goal.
“And at any given day, we’d like to have five days of inventory of all blood types on the shelves for hospitals. And I’m happy to say thanks to all our donors. We have accomplished that mission, but we still are in hurricane season,” she said.
Red Cross officials note that blood drives can be canceled and donor turnout can decline during major storms, making it important for people to donate before shortages develop.
For those planning to give blood, McGuire recommends taking a few simple steps beforehand.
“With flu and cold season coming up on us shortly, we do ask that you’re feeling well. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. The more hydrated you are, the quicker your blood comes out and the process goes a little bit quicker,” McGuire said.
Appointments to donate blood can be scheduled through the American Red Cross at redcrossblood.org, where donors can also find eligibility requirements and blood drive locations.