The winter season is typically a difficult time for collecting blood donations and it’s no surprise that the pandemic is creating more difficulty in keeping an adequate blood supply. That’s according to the American Red Cross. Spokesperson Ronnika McFall explains says the need.
"Every day the Red Cross must collect 13,000 blood donations, and here in Georgia, we must collect a little over 538 blood donations. So it's just very important that if you are healthy and feeling well that you make it a habit to donate blood. You can donate comfortably every 56 days."
Those using the Red Cross Blood donor app to make appoints have access to a wide range of information.
"You also can download the Red Cross Blood Donor app and you can track where your blood is going. The Red Cross Donor app also updates you on how many lives you're saving, you can view your blood type, it's just a great tool to have when you are a regular blood donor."
The Red Cross is also testing all blood donations for COVID-19 antibodies. Those donors can help current coronavirus patients via convalescent plasma transfusions.
McFall says those wanting to host blood drives as well, particularly those with facilities large enough to allow social distancing, are welcome.
Make your appointment to give blood, platelets, or plasma with the Red Cross by downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS ( 1-800-733-2767).
