The Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) is urging the public to donate blood, as the province is running dangerously low on supply.
The Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) is experiencing a critical shortage in blood stocks, particularly the O+ and B+ blood group. They currently only have a 1-day supply in these two blood groups.
“WCBS aims to maintain a blood stock level of 5 days at all times to ensure we meet the demands of the Western Cape. However, we have seen a decline in our blood stock levels, particularly in O+ and B+”, says Marike Gevers, Public Relations Manager at WCBS.
The O blood group is the universal blood group, making it of extreme importance. O- can be transfused to all blood groups and O+ can be transfused to all positive blood groups.
WCBS is appealing to eligible donors of all blood groups to please find their way to the closest blood donation clinic and donate blood. One donation can save up to three lives and all safety protocols are in place to safeguard all donors and staff.
If you are between the ages of 16 and 75, weigh 50kg or more, are healthy on the day of donation, lead a safe sexual lifestyle and would like to save three lives in just 30 minutes, you should be able to donate.
If you are able to donate, please find your closest blood donation venue on the WCBS App. Download the app on Google play HERE or the App Store HERE.
Also read: Western Cape Blood Service: It’s safe to donate
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