South African National Blood Service (SANBS) has appealed to the public to donate blood, warning that national stock levels have dropped to critically low levels.
SANBS says blood collections usually decline during the festive season, with January traditionally proving especially challenging. Many regular donors travel over the holidays, while schools, universities and workplaces remain closed, reducing access to donation drives.
SANBS Senior Communications Manager Thandi Mosupye has encouraged eligible donors to visit permanent donor centres or temporary donation sites such as shopping malls.
She said there is an urgent need for blood groups O and B, which are currently in shortest supply.
“Group O blood is used in emergency situations because it can be given to anyone when a patient’s blood type is unknown,” Mosupye said. “That makes it particularly important for us to have enough of it available.”
SANBS has urged South Africans who are able to donate to do so as soon as possible to help maintain a stable and safe blood supply.
–ChannelAfrica–
