Blood stock levels in the Western Cape decline during the festive season due to regular blood donors going on holiday and perhaps not attending the blood donation clinic they would normally.
COVID-19 adds additional pressure as regular blood donation clinics such as businesses, schools and universities remain closed.
Currently, the Western Cape Blood Service is experiencing a critical shortage in O- as they only have a 2-day supply. They are also experiencing a shortage in O+, A+ and B+ as they only have a 3-day supply.
“We would like to appeal to all eligible blood donors to wrap up 2020 by donating blood and saving up to 3 lives”, says Marike Gevers, Public Relations Manager at WCBS. “We need to maintain a 5-day blood stock level in order to supply the Western Cape with a sufficient blood supply.”
Blood donation takes 30 minutes of your time and you can donate every 56 days. 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 sexual lifestyle, you should be able to donate.
If your business, school or tertiary institution is able to host a blood donation clinic in the near future, WCBS would also like to hear from you. Donors can rest assure that it is safe to donate blood and that all COVID-19 safety protocols are in place.
To find your closest blood donation clinic please download the WCBS app on Android and iOS, send them a WhatsApp on 060 549 7244 or visit their website on www.wcbs.org.za for more information.
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