The American Red Cross has declared an emergency blood shortage as the blood supply fell nearly 25% in June. The Red Cross says blood donors are urgently needed to give blood to help ensure patients receive lifesaving medical care.

Blood Donations Needed

The Red Cross blood distributions to hospitals are nearly 3,500 units higher per week than expected, and a steep decline in blood donations since May’s end has created a gap between supply and patient need. The organization said that busy schedules, temporary illness, and the seasonal loss of school blood drives during summer break are driving the decline in donations, which could put patient care at risk if not reversed.

The Red Cross says all blood types are needed, especially types O positive and B negative blood, as well as AB plasma. Without immediate action, patients who rely on transfusions — including trauma patients, mothers in childbirth, and those with sickle cell disease or cancer — face serious risk.

To encourage donations, the Red Cross is offering Fandango Movie Tickets (up to $15 ticket price and fees) via email to donors who give at participating locations between July 13 and July 31. Additional details can be found at RedCrossBlood.org/July.

How to Donate Blood

Those who are able to are urged by the Red Cross to book an appointment to give blood or platelets by using the Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). To be eligible to donate blood, individuals must be at least 17 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds, and be in generally good health.

Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.