Western Cape Blood Services low on two blood groups

The Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) urged citizens to donate blood, after blood groups O+ and B+, are critically low.

As of 2 October 2020, the WCBS has 2 days blood stocks left, for both O+ and B+.

The O blood group is the universal blood group and can therefore be given to other blood groups (O+ can be given to all positive blood groups and O- can be given to all negative blood groups).

The service said there had been a significant decline in blood stocks as most facilities were closed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

 “The safety of blood donors, staff and blood recipients have always been our main priorities and WCBS has implemented stringent hygiene and precautionary measures since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic to ensure their ongoing safety," said public relations manager Marike Gevers.

The coronavirus cannot be transmitted through a blood transfusion as respiratory viruses are generally not known to be transmitted by donation or transfusion.’’ Gevers added.

You are eligible for blood donation, if you are between the ages of 16 and 75, weigh 50kg or more, are healthy on the day of donation and lead a safe lifestyle. For your own safety, says WCBS, you won’t be able to donate blood if you are a competitive sportsperson training for a big event, or are involved in a hazardous occupation.

For more information, visit www.wcbs.org.za

 

Done By: Mitchum George