Red Cross Continues To Face Severe Blood Shortage

A historically low blood supply continues to be a problem for the American Red Cross, who supplies 40-percent of the nation’s blood for hospitals and emergency rooms.

With blood supplies already at historic lows, concerns are the holiday season with busy schedules, breaks from school and work, as well as winter weather, which already lower donation amounts at this time of year will be expanded due to the ongoing COVID-19 challenges.

Supplies of blood are so low the American Red Cross says they are at a point where some patients relying on a transfusion may not receive the blood they need, and if more donors don’t come forward to give blood, some patients requiring a transfusion may potentially face delays in care.

To encourage donors to help address the historically low blood supply this holiday season, all who come to give December 17 through January 2 will receive an exclusive Red Cross long-sleeved T-shirt, while supplies last. Donors are urged to schedule an appointment now by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

There is no blood donation waiting period for those who have received a flu shot or a Moderna, Pfizer or Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine or booster, so long as they are symptom-free.