Dire blood shortage as long weekend approaches

By Nadia Samie
29 March 2007

With the long Easter Weekend looming on our doorstep, the SA National Blood Service’s (SANBS) has appealed for donations, as they are sitting with a serious shortage.

SANBS spokesperson Gail Nothard says that they only have a three day stock of blood for Johannesburg and less than two days for coastal areas. The bank is supposed to have a seven-day stock in its reserves.

The blood bank has appealed to travelers to donate blood before going on holiday.

The SANBS website outline the following criteria for becoming a donor:

Weigh at least 50kg;

Be between the ages of 16 and 65;

Be in good health;

Lead a sexually safe lifestyle; and

Consider your blood safe for transfusion to a patient

Anyone willing to donate blood can call the toll free number on 0800 119 031 for information on their nearest clinic. Donors Click here for the Western Province Blood Transfusion Services website.