EDITORIAL: Blood needed, now more than ever

Published 10:30 am Tuesday, October 27, 2020

It is safe to give blood during the COVID-19 pandemic and blood is needed.

Blood banks in our region and across the nation are facing significant shortages.

Simply put, the donation of blood could help save a life.

We understand the fears and concerns that people may have, and we also know that not everyone can donate blood, but those who can should give it serious consideration.

Blood banks have extensive protocols in place to create a safe environment for blood donations, with service providers wearing masks, locations that promote social distancing and extensive cleaning and disinfection processes throughout the day.

All blood types are needed.

Blood and blood platelets cannot be manufactured in a laboratory.

They must be donated.

The American Red Cross says that someone in the United States needs blood every two seconds.

That number is staggering and it is not uncommon in some locations for demand to exceed supply.

The Red Cross has also said that one blood donor can potentially save up to three lives.

Health care leaders have explained the pandemic has taken a toll on the blood supply.

Donors are encouraged to donate now to ensure area hospitals have the blood needed to help patients suffering from traumas, cancers and chronic illnesses, health care representatives said.

Donors must be at least 17 years old or 16 with parental permission, must weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be in good health. A photo ID is needed.

Download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information.

The American Red Cross and LifeSouth community blood centers are both good options for donating blood or for helping your business or organization in hosting a blood drive. You can check with both organizations to find out the most convenient time and location.

This week presents an excellent opportunity. From 1 to 6 p.m. Thursday at Allen’s Market, 101 W. McIntosh Street a blood drive will be held. This is part of a series of drives underway at Allen’s Market for the next few weeks. Other drives are slated from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Nov. 2, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Nov. 3., 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 4 and Nov. 5.

We cannot all be frontline workers or provide emergency services but giving blood is something that many of us can do to help save lives.