The Type O Negative blood supply has dwindled to a critically low level in this region.
The Greater Alleghenies Region of the American Red Cross Blood Services should have a week’s supply of all blood types to adequately supply the more than 100 hospitals it serves in sex states. Type O Negative blood inventory is at less than a day’s supply.
American Red Cross officials are urging all eligible donors to give blood , especially those with Type O Negative. Type A Negative and B Negative blood types are also at a critically low level with inventory levels being at a day and a half-day’s supplies, respectively.
“Without the ready availability of Type O Negative, the universal blood type, trauma patients and accident victims might not have a chance,” said Pam Sharp, director of product management for the Greater Alleghenies Region. “Although just seven percent of the population has Type O Negative blood, in an emergency, it can be transfused to any patient in need.”
Sharp pointed out that more than 1,000 potential units of blood were lost last month due to blood drive cancellation because of wintery conditions. Blood supplies also tend to be lower after the holiday season.
“As of this morning, we only have 66 units of Type O Negative blood on our shelves when we would like to have 500,” said Sahrp. “Type B Negative blood supplies have also dwindled leaving only 15 units.
Donors are encouraged to donate to one of the below blood drives, or call 1-800-542-5663 or log onto www.redcrosslife.org to find an upcoming blood drive.
•Station Mall, today until 6 p.m.
•Brethren in Christ Church in Martinsburg, Jan. 9, 1-7 p.m.
•St. Catherine’s Catholic Church in Duncansville, Jan. 21, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
•Logan Valley Mall, Altoona, Jan. 23, 1-7 p.m.
•Railroad Memorial Museum, Jan. 24, 1-7 p.m.
Also, donors can give their gift of life at the Altoona Donor Center, located at 317 E. Pleasant Valley Blvd., Altoona, on Tuesdays from noon to 6 p.m. and on Wednesdays from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Appointments can be made by contacting 1-800-99-DONOR.
As a reminder, anyone weighing 105 pounds or more and are not limited medically can give blood.
