The holiday season has passed, but the effects of seasonal activities and holiday travel are proving to have lasting effects on the blood supply. A holiday donation shortfall is now prompting the American Red Cross to issue an emergency call for blood and platelet donors to give now to prevent a prolonged blood shortage.
Because blood is a perishable product that can only be supplied by generous volunteers, any disruptions to blood donations – whether from holidays, severe winter weather or even widespread flu – could cause delays in lifesaving medical treatments this winter. The attached news release provides additional detail on the emergency need and how people in your community can help.