Wyoming’s supply of essential type O blood has reached a two-year low, according to Vitalant, a nonprofit blood and biotherapies organization. The organization is urging all donors, particularly those with type O blood, to schedule appointments to help boost the blood supply.
Why Type O Blood Matters
Type O blood is the most transfused blood type and is essential in lifesaving emergency events where there is little time to test for a patient’s blood type. O-negative blood is compatible with any patient, while O-positive can help any patient with a positive blood type. Nearly 40% of the population has type O-positive and can only receive type O blood.
Blood supplies were already running low before the July Fourth holiday, which typically sees fewer donation turnout as people travel and participate in holiday activities. Vitalant has donation locations in Casper and Cheyenne and supplies blood and blood products to more than 95% of Wyoming hospitals.
To encourage donations, Vitalant is offering incentives, including t-shirts, $20 gift cards, and the chance to be entered to win a car. Donors can visit the Vitalant website for information on incentives and to schedule donation appointments.
Original reporting: Oil City News (Casper WY) — read the source article.
