Blood supplies have dropped to critically low levels at UAB.Blood supplies are dangerously low across the United States. The University of Alabama at Birmingham Hospital is asking the public to roll up their sleeves and donate blood during this critical time.
“Blood donation has been severely affected by COVID-19, and the current situation is critical,” said Marisa Marques, M.D., director of Transfusion Services at UAB. “We are asking the public to donate blood via one of the blood collection agencies, the American Red Cross or LifeSouth Community Blood Centers, at any of their locations or drives.”
To find a drive or facility near you, go to the American Red Cross website or the LifeSouth Community Blood Centers website.
As part of recommended social distancing, many frequent or casual blood donors have curtailed their normal activities, including blood donation. However, donating blood can be done safely as blood collection agencies have implemented multiple strategies to reduce any potential risk of exposure to staff and donors.
Hospitals need suitable reserves for those patients who need a blood transfusion, such as those with cancer, sickle cell disease, undergoing emergency surgery, trauma victims or post-partum women, among others.
Donors of all blood types are needed. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are needed to donate. The process usually takes less than 40 minutes. Individuals who are at least 17 years of age, weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood.