The Western Province Blood Transfusion Service (WPBTS) are asking new and regular blood donors to donate blood as supplies of multiple types are low.
The Western Cape is running extremely low on O+ and O- and very low on A+ and B+ blood types. The WPBTS has appealed to new and regular blood donors to go to their local blood banks and donate. The blood stocks are critically low level.
Blood Types O- and O+ are universal blood groups, meaning that it can be transfused to all other blood groups.
Currently, there is only 1 days supply of blood stocks, meaning that they are in desperate need of blood donors that fit the criteria.
To qualify as a blood donor you must:
- be between the age of 16 and 65
- weigh over 50kg
- be in good general health
- lead a safe sexual lifestyle
“We are appealing to everyone who is eligible and who meet the basic criteria to please come to donate blood. If we look at our current stocks, we’ve only got one day’s blood left. This is very critical.” – Michelle Vermeulen, Corporate public relations officer at the WP Blood Transfusion Service
If you are looking for a place to donate, you can do so on their website here. Their interactive home page features up-to-date information regarding blood stocks at any time so always check back if your type is in need.
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