The American Red Cross has declared a national blood crisis.
Ann Vastmans with the American Red Cross says that this type of national declaration is a rare thing.
“We've done this now for only the second time in our history," Vastmans says. "The number of donations that are coming in are just not keeping up with the need for blood that we are seeing in the hospitals.”
Extreme heat, poor air quality and widespread foodborne illnesses are believed to be the major factors in this current lower donor turnout. This is only the second time the American Red Cross has declared a national blood crisis.
“Right now, if we had just three extra people show up at blood drives, we can help to end this crisis," Vastmans explains.
Vastmans says all blood types are needed, but the situation is especially dire for type O blood. The supply of type O positive blood has now dropped below a one-day supply.
Missourinet