Nationally and locally, blood supplies have dropped to critically low levels, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which continues to affect donations. In early January, the American Red Cross warned of the blood crisis – citing the 62% drop in college and high school blood drives due to the pandemic as two contributing factors. Other reasons for the blood shortage were ongoing blood drive cancellations because of illness, staffing limitations and weather-related closures and a surge of COVID-19 cases, and an active flu season that may compound the already bad situation. Overall, the pandemic has revealed the most significant shortage in the past 10 years in terms of the typical blood level of donations; about 10% lower than historical collections.

Nationwide, many areas have less than a one-day supply of type O blood—the most needed and transfused blood type that’s vital in emergency situations. The type O blood supply is at its lowest since May 2020, shortly after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s common to assume that accidents use the most donated blood however, there are many reasons patients need blood. People needing the most blood include those who are being treated for cancer, are undergoing orthopedic or cardiovascular surgeries, or those who are being treated for inherited blood disorders. There is simply no substitute for blood and volunteer blood donors are the only source for patients in need of blood and blood products. It is a truly life-saving endeavor, and a single donation can save up to three lives. Those who are eligible are urged to share their good health by donating blood.

Pre-registration is preferred for the February 19th blood drive, however, walk-ins will be welcome all day at both locations. Register online at www.OneBlood/Donate-Now.org using sponsor code #67024 (Treasure Coast) or #67237 (Islamorada)