(NewsNation) — One of the largest blood suppliers in the U.S. is facing an emergency shortage as its supply has dropped by nearly 50%.
Vitalant, a nonprofit organization based out Phoenix, Arizona, that provides to about 900 hospitals nationwide said they are encouraging eligible donors to schedule an appointment as soon as possible ahead of the Labor Day holiday.
The organization is particularly interested in blood type O, a universal type that can be donated to all others.
“Hospitals need people to donate during these critical weeks,” said Vitalant Chief Medical and Scientific Officer Dr. Ralph Vassallo. “Patient blood needs don’t conform to a predictable schedule. Several patients may experience emergencies, while a planned surgery could suddenly require dozens of units of blood for one patient. Hospitals must have blood available to take care of everyone.”
BASIC ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS for donation
- Must be at least 16 years old
- Weight at least 110 pounds
- Be in good overall health
- Bring some form of identification
- Eat within two hours ahead of donation
Donors are strongly encouraged to eat within two hours of donation, drink plenty of non-alcoholic liquids and wait eight weeks before donating again.
Donors are not tested for an active COVID-19 infection and Vitalant asks that anyone not feeling well not enter a facility.
For additional eligibility requirements and more information on how to donate, click here.