The Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) is currently experiencing a critical shortage of blood stocks, prompting an urgent appeal for donors.
The cold weather and harsh storms have reportedly exacerbated the situation, and on Monday, the WCBS issued an appeal for donors, specifically those of O, B and A-positive blood types.
Also read: Join WCBS and myrun to save lives this World Blood Donor Month
According to IOL, Marike Carli, the public relations manager at the WCBS, urged potential donors to come forward as stocks have reached critically low levels.
The winter season, according to Carli, has had a significant impact on blood stocks, exacerbating the shortage. The O and B blood groups are particularly vulnerable, with only a two-day supply remaining. A-positive blood stocks are also reportedly in short supply, with only a three-day supply available.
Normally, the WCBS aims to keep blood stocks at five days; however, the harsh winter weather and ongoing storms in Cape Town have hampered donation efforts, as potential donors frequently become ill with colds and flu during this time, making them ineligible to donate until their symptoms resolve.
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June marks National Blood Donor Month for the WCBS, during which the organisation seeks to raise awareness about the importance of voluntary blood donation and the critical need for a safe and sustainable blood supply. Each day, thousands of patients in South Africa require life-saving blood transfusions.
These transfusions are crucial not only for accident and trauma-related cases but also for patients with low platelet counts, those with immunodeficiency disorders, individuals undergoing chemotherapy or awaiting bone marrow transplants, expectant mothers and those undergoing heart surgeries.
The demand for blood is constant, with patients relying on these donations.
To raise even more awareness, the WCBS intends to take part in myrun on Sunday, joining various events across the Western Cape.
Carli, according to IOL, encouraged everyone to join in celebrating the incredible act of saving lives through blood donation. Participants are encouraged to wear red or heroic attire in order to reflect the theme of being a local hero and donating blood. On the day, all participants will be given caps to emphasise the heroism of blood donors.
Locals who wish to obtain more information or locate the nearest blood donation clinic are encouraged to visit www.wcbs.org.za or download the WCBS app. Individuals interested in participating in the myrun race can register by visiting www.myrun.org.za.
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