Blood banks in Washington are urging residents to donate blood after available supplies reached alarming low levels, according to a news release from the Washington state Department of Health
Cold weather and dangerous driving conditions have kept many donors from making or keeping appointments, the department stated. This has led to shortages of available blood for transfusions and treatment, particularly for Type O blood, both negative and positive, and platelets.
Low blood supplies may force some hospitals to delay or cancel procedures.
Shortages also limit emergency departments’ ability to respond to mass casualties or other health emergencies.
One pint of donated blood can save up to three lives by providing red blood cells, plasma or platelets to those in need, the Department of Health stated.
Appointments can be scheduled at one’s convenience and take about an hour. Learn more details, including eligibility requirements, by visiting Northwest Blood Coalition members’ websites:
