American Red Cross Continues to Battle National Blood Crisis

DELMARVA– The American Red Cross has declared a national blood crisis as donations have dropped to a four-year summer low, creating shortages that are already affecting patients on Delmarva.

The Red Cross said all blood types are needed, but the shortage is especially critical for Type O blood. As a result, the organization has begun limiting distributions of Type O blood products to hospitals.

The shortage is also being felt locally.

“Locally, the numbers aren’t where we want them to be,”  said Tony Prado, communication specialist with the Delmarva Blood Bank. “Ideally, we would maintain a seven day supply at all times for for all blood types. But when you look at the particular shortage for O positive and O negative, you’re talking about a blood supply that has been, at best, three days –usually two days or less– throughout the summer.”

Officials say blood donations have not kept pace with hospital demand, causing the shortage to worsen. They also point to extreme heat, poor air quality and widespread foodborne illnesses as factors contributing to lower donor turnout this summer.

Health officials are encouraging eligible donors to give blood as soon as possible to help replenish the region’s supply and meet the needs of local hospitals.

For more information about the current blood shortage or to schedule a donation visit https://delmarvablood.org/flag/