The high numbers of people with the flu and cold this season is impacting the local blood supply. Anticipated donations at mobile drives and centers are significantly down due to cancellations based on reported illness. SDBB is asking San Diegans to donate blood as soon as possible to help them ensure that local patients have the blood needed.
On a national level, blood centers in the Northeast and East Coast that are unable to collect for their local hospitals due to the effects of recent winter storms. With potential national shortages, San Diego may be called upon to assist other areas of the country.
“It’s critical that our community, especially those with type O blood, and those who have never given blood before, come out and donate today,” says San Diego Blood Bank CEO, Dr. Wellis. “Let’s do what we do best, partner together as a community to save the lives of patients in need.”
You can do something about the challenges the flu season brings blood banks like ours. Start by scheduling your appointment to give today.