Blood supply in the Western Cape is dangerously low

By Ilhaam Hoosain
14 December 2007

The Western Province Blood Transfusion Service says there has been an improvement in the supply of blood in the province, but supplies are still dangerously low.

Spokesperson Lynn Erasmus says there is only enough stock of O-group blood for four days. With three long weekends following closely on each other this month Erasmus has reiterated the call for donors to come forward in an effort to stabilise the province’s supply.

“Shortages are being experienced at especially Groote Schuur Hospital, the Red Cross Children’s Hospital and the Tygerberg Hospital,” says Erasmus.

They are calling on all volunteers to come and donate as they run into the festive season.

They have put in place several extra donation clinics and will be in various malls around the Western Cape. The first drive takes place between 10am and 3pm on Saturday the 15 December, at shop number 126 in the Tyger Valley shopping centre and the next one at the N1 city mall shopping centre on Sunday the 23 December under the esculator between 10am and 2.45pm.

Anyone who wants more information about clinics in their area can contact: 021 507 6300 or visit WPBTS Donor Centre at 22 Long Street, Cape Town.

To daonate blood you must be over 17-years-old, weigh more than 50kg and lead a safe lifestyle. Donors need eat before donating blood.

Picture: www.wpbts.org.za

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