Urgent Blood Donations Are Needed For Emergency Blood Shortage In Nevada
There is an emergency blood shortage nationwide this summer. And donors are needed.
Local nonprofit organization Vitalant is requesting blood donations from anyone who is able to make an appointment this month. There is a drastic shortage of all blood types that are needed to save lives here in Nevada and nationwide.
The shortage comes from an ongoing struggle during summer months to maintain a critical blood supply. Because of summer breaks and vacations, donors are not as available. Also, some companies or individuals who usually host drives for blood donations are not as available either. The fourth of July weekend tends to exacerbate the problem, making July a very unstable month for donations.
Donations of all blood types are needed.
But type O is especially needed as it is the most transfused type. This is because type O-negative can be used to help any patient in an emergency. This is especially vital for those emergencies where there isn’t time to determine a patient’s blood type. Type O-positive is also highly needed because it can be transfused into anyone that has any positive blood type.
And while type O is the most universal, all blood types are needed right now. Currently, there is less than a 3-day supply of all blood types to help individuals in need. These blood donations are used to treat patients with chronic illnesses and cancers. But they’re also needed for emergencies.
And that’s another factor that makes summertime more difficult for blood donation service centers. Due to summer breaks, a lot more outdoor activity happens, which increases the rate of injuries and medical emergencies.
Vitalant is asking for anyone who is able to help. Donations can be made in Southern Nevada at one of the following locations:
Las Vegas – West Charleston: 6930 W. Charleston Blvd.
Henderson – Green Valley: 601 Whitney Ranch Dr. Bldg. D, Ste 20 Las Vegas – Northwest: 4950 W. Craig Rd.
Do You Know Your Blood Type? How About Your Horoscope Sign?
– Wendy Rush, 96.3 KKLZ
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