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AS HURRICANE IAN MAKES LANDFALL, INDIVIDUALS IN SAN DIEGO URGED TO DONATE BLOOD | PRESS RELEASE
All eligible blood donors in San Diego are encouraged to give blood amid critically low blood supply
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SAN DIEGO (September 29, 2022) As Hurricane Ian reaches Florida and moves throughout the Southeast with dangerous storm surges, winds and flooding, San Diego Blood Bank in coordination with the AABB Interorganizational Task Force on Domestic Disasters and Acts of Terrorism strongly urges eligible individuals in unaffected areas throughout the United States including San Diego to schedule a blood or platelet donation appointment as soon as possible.
These donations are essential to maintaining a stable and adequate supply of blood and platelets in the coming days, which can help save lives and ensure patient needs continue to be met. The need for platelets is particularly urgent, given that they have a limited shelf life of five days and that the expected breadth and duration of the storm will likely impact large sections of the Southeast.
On average, blood collection organizations nationwide had only one to two days’ worth supply of blood supply heading into the storm. Anticipated disruptions in blood collections—as well as transportation challenges—in Florida and the Southeast throughout the next several days are likely to exacerbate already low inventories, particularly in the affected areas.
“Our community always responds when we put out the call for blood donations locally, and we hope for continued support in case further assistance is needed in other parts of the country,” said San Diego Blood Bank CEO Doug Morton. “San Diego Blood Bank has provided platelets to help with this effort and we will stay in touch with blood centers in the area to further assist if needed.”
To be eligible to donate blood you must be at least 17 years old, weigh at least 114 pounds, and be in general good health. Eligible blood donors are encouraged to schedule an appointment at SanDiegoBloodBank.org or calling (619) 400-8251.
About San Diego Blood Bank
San Diego Blood Bank (SDBB) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization also operating as Southern California Blood Bank. The Blood Bank serves hospitals throughout Southern California with more than 150,000 units of blood each year. San Diego Blood Bank’s mission is to connect diverse communities to save and improve lives through blood and biotherapies. Dedicated to advancing health and wellness through medical innovation, SDBB has provided an essential service since 1950. San Diego Blood Bank currently operates nine fixed-site donation locations and 10 bloodmobiles, with blood drives running daily. For more information about SDBB, visit www.SanDiegoBloodBank.org and follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Linkedin.
