The American Red Cross declared a national blood shortage in early September. This shortage was caused by a lack of donors this past summer. Since the beginning of August, the organization’s blood supply level dropped nearly 25%, putting it in a critical position and forcing it to reduce crucial distribution to hospitals. Southern Illinois University.
Red Cross in urgent need of blood, convalescent plasma
Red Cross in urgent need of blood, convalescent plasma By Mike Mohundro | January 20, 2021 at 4:25 PM CST - Updated January 20 at 6:25 PM
CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KFVS) - The American Red Cross is in an urgent need for blood and convalescent plasma.
With COVID-19 still producing high numbers, blood, platelets, and convalescent plasma are always needed as hospitals continue to see new patients.
American Red Cross Donor Recruitment Representative Tara Lincoln said they have an urgent need for all blood types right now.
“Winter always takes a toll on us because people are traveling on vacations and holidays do hit us,” Lincoln said. “Especially this year with COVID happening and people not getting out to give blood as often. We’ve definitely seen a decline in our blood donations.”