Blood Center Declares Emergency, Supplies at Critically Low Levels

Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone urged residents to donate blood to replenish blood supplies that have declined to a critically low level this summer.

“It is imperative that we have enough blood at hand to cope with trauma and the longterm needs of patients who need regular transfusions,” County Executive Bellone said.  “Giving the gift of life takes little time and means so much to so many people.”

The New York Blood Center (NYBC) reports that while it is distributing more blood than last year at this time, the summer vacation months have been particularly hard on blood donations and supplies.

“More than one-quarter of our community’s blood supply comes from high school and college blood drives,” said NYBC Chief Medical Officer Dr. Beth Shaz. “So when school is out, our blood supply dwindles. That’s why we’re asking all potential blood donors to roll up their sleeves and give at this critical time of year.”

“While we’re confident in our ability to supply our partner hospitals, it’s critical that we all pitch in by donating blood to ensure that supplies aren’t further diminished in the days ahead,” Dr. Shaz said.  “When you give blood, you give the gift of life. So in this time of need, add blood donation to your back-to-school checklist.”

Each and every day, there are patients who depend on the transfusion of red blood cells, platelets and plasma to stay alive– including those with cancer, leukemia, and victims of accidents and other traumas. But blood and blood products can only come from volunteer blood donors who take an hour or so out of their busy schedule to attend a blood drive or visit a donor center. With a limited shelf life, blood supplies must be continually replenished.

Some Facts About The Blood Supply:

• People with O-negative blood are known as “universal donors” because their blood can be transfused to anyone.  Type O-negative blood is found in just six percent of the population, and is often transfused to patients with other blood types in emergency rooms and trauma situations.

• People of all blood types and ethnicities are encouraged to donate, and are critical to maintaining the diversity of Greater New York’s blood supply.

• Car accident and trauma victims may need 50 or more blood transfusions.

• Police officers can be injured in the line of duty.  First responders also face great danger during emergencies.

• People can donate one pint of whole blood every 56 days and platelets every three days. 

Any company, community organization, place of worship, or individual may host a blood drive.  NYBC also offers special community service scholarships for students who organize community blood drives during summer months.  Blood donors receive free mini-medical exams on site including information about their temperature, blood pressure and hematocrit level.  Eligible donors include those people at least age 16 (with parental permission or consent), who weigh a minimum of 110 pounds, are in good health and meet all Food & Drug Administration and NY or NJ State Department of Health donor criteria.  People over 75 may donate with a doctor’s note.

Website: www.nybloodcenter.org