Blood donations in South African have always been low, considering that less than 1% of the population actively give blood. Now, due to COVID-19 and lockdown, the number has declined further in the past 18 months. The SANBS hope that this campaign, which presents a new perspective on the need for blood, will drive an increase in donations.
Johannesburg, South Africa (16 November 2021) – With just weeks to go until the start of the festive season, the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) has launched an awareness campaign that seeks to drive blood donation in anticipation of the busy holiday season.
Less than 1% of South Africans are active blood donors. A unit of blood only lasts 42 days after donation and, for this reason, it is important for blood donors to donate regularly. Donors can give blood as often as every eight weeks. Every unit of blood can save a minimum of three lives as blood is separated into red blood cells, plasma and platelets. SANBS aims to collect 3000 units of blood per day to ensure a safe and sufficient blood supply in the health care system. This is the journey of 1 unit of donated blood.
SANBS’ CEO, Ravi Reddy, admitted that this year has seen concerning fluctuations in blood stocks throughout the year and hopes that donors will help them reach five (5) days’ stock which is needed to ensure a sustainable supply for the country.
“Blood donations in South African have always been low, considering that less than 1% of the population actively give blood. Now, due to COVID-19 and lockdown, the number has declined further in the past 18 months. We hope that this campaign, which presents a new perspective on the need for blood, will drive an increase in donations,” Reddy says.
The awareness campaign commenced on Monday, 15 November 2021, using a 360 approach to reach maximum audiences across the country through the use of radio, billboards and the various SANBS social media platforms.
Donating blood literally means saving lives, and Reddy says the SANBS is grateful to its blood donors, partners and service providers for their continued support through these trying times.
“We hope this campaign will inspire and encourage the public to include blood donation in their daily lives and to join in this lifesaving mission by becoming committed donors. At a time when we are unable to gather for much else, we can at least join forces for this common cause – giving the gift of life,” Reddy concluded.
To become a blood donor, you must:
- Be between the ages of 16 and 75 years.
- Weigh 50kg or more.
- Be in good health.
- Lead a healthy lifestyle.
- Consider your blood safe for transfusion to a patient.
To find out more about where you can donate blood, visit www.sanbs.org.za or call 0800 11 90 31. Connect with us on Twitter (@theSANBS), Facebook (@SANBS) and Instagram (@thesanbs).
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