Africa-Press – South-Africa. The Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) is appealing to the public to urgently donate blood as supplies are running critically low.
The service said on Tuesday that its O-type blood stocks were very low.
The Western Cape only has two days’ worth of O-negative blood supply and three days’ supply of O-positive.
O-type blood can give red blood cells to all other blood groups, making it crucial for emergencies. O-negative blood is often called the “universal blood type” because people of any blood type can receive it.
WCBS public relations manager Marike Carli said they were pleading with the public to donate blood as their supply is under severe pressure.
“Over the past few weeks, the WCBS [has] struggled to maintain the required O blood group stock levels. These blood groups are still under the required five-day supply, fluctuating between two and three days. We are urging the public to please find their closest blood donation clinic to donate blood,” she said.
According to Carli, the decline was caused by inclement weather in the province.
“During winter months, we struggle with collections. The weather is not always conducive. We have seen a lot of rain and storms during this winter. Also, donors suffer from colds and flu, and can only donate blood after the resolution of symptoms,” she explained.
Earlier this month, the WCBS introduced a campaign that will run until December with the theme “GIVE”.
September kicked off with “Giving is in my blood”.
Carl said: “We hope that this message will inspire everyone to donate blood and save lives, and, in doing so, [donating blood will] become part of their values, identity and, ultimately, their heritage.
“If you are [aged] between 16 and 75, weigh 50kg or more, are in good general health, and lead a safe sexual lifestyle, you should be able to donate.”
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