The Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) is appealing to all eligible and potential donors to donate blood urgently, to ‘’avoid day zero.’’ The WCBS says blood stocks remain under severe pressure as the province heads into the winter season.
“The Western Cape blood stocks remain at a 1-day supply and
patients’ lives are at risk as we are trying to avoid day zero. Over the past
few weeks, we have struggled to maintain the required blood stock levels as
blood collections continue to be challenging, while blood usage has increased
markedly in recent months. Currently, there is a critical shortage in numerous
blood groups; we have a 1-day supply left for O blood groups and a 2-day for B
and A blood groups”, says Marike Gevers, Public Relations Manager at WCBS.
Gevers says the blood service needs about 700 units of
blood per day to have sufficient supply.
“We need to collect 700 units of blood every day to ensure
a sufficient blood supply. To find your closest blood donation clinic, please
download the WCBS app on Android and iOS, send us a WhatsApp on 060 549 7244 or
visit www.wcbs.org.za for more information.”
In order to donate blood, you need to be between the ages
of 16 and 75, weigh 50kg or more, are in good general health, and lead a safe
sexual lifestyle.
Blood donation takes 30 minutes of your time, and you can
donate every 56 days.
PICTURE: WCBSDone By: Mitchum George
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