Blood supply is running low in the Western Cape.
Image: File
The Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) is appealing for public donations of blood this week as stocks run critically low due to adverse weather conditions.
Due to the weather, the blood service said it was unable to collect several blood units required to meet hospital demand across the province.
The WCBS spokesperson, Marike Carli, said it needs to collect 700 units of blood every day to maintain a stable blood supply.
Blood groups O-negative and O-positive are currently under the greatest strain, with O-positive at only a three-day supply and O-negative at just a two-day supply.
“Winter is traditionally a challenging period for maintaining a five-day blood stock level across all blood groups due to colds, flu and school holidays. The Level 8 weather warning has added additional pressure to an already vulnerable blood supply. We are appealing to all eligible donors to make blood donation a priority this week to help ensure blood stocks meet hospital demand,” Carli said.
Several blood donation clinics were cancelled or temporarily closed on Monday and Tuesday, due to severe weather conditions, school closures, and venue accessibility challenges.
All blood donation centres across the province are currently open, and WCBS will communicate any further operational changes directly to donors and on social media.
“If you are between 16 and 75, weigh 50kg or more, are in good general health, and lead a safe sexual lifestyle, you should be able to donate. Donors are advised to eat a substantial meal within three to four hours before visiting a clinic and to increase their fluid intake before, during, and after donation. Blood donation only takes 30 minutes of your time, and you can donate blood every 56 days,” Carli said.
For more information or to find your closest blood donation clinic, visit www.wcbs.org.za, or send a WhatsApp to 060 549 7244.
IOL