The American Red Cross has declared a blood supply crisis in the US for the second time in its 150-year history. The crisis has reached a "crisis" level due to a combination of factors, including wildfires, extreme heat, and widespread food-borne illnesses.
Blood Shortage Hits US: Red Cross Declares Crisis for Second Time Ever
Supply levels dropped by a quarter just last month, and the crisis has struck during the summer, when the amount of blood hospitals need increases typically. Dr Courtney Lawrence, who works with the American Red Cross, told the BBC that this is because of an increased number of car accidents and more people spending time outdoors, resulting in more injuries that require blood transfusions.
The American Red Cross – which is the largest single blood supplier in the US, providing about 40% – is currently distributing about 3,500 more units than normal during this time of year. Lawrence said that the organisation is having to dip "very, very low into our blood inventory." Donated blood has to be used within 42 days because blood cells degrade over time.
Why the Crisis is Worrying
Hospitals are concerned that the crisis could have some impact on routine operations. Some have considered "whether they may need to divert patients to other trauma centres if they cannot keep enough blood on their shelves to be able to support emergencies." Lawrence stressed that a combination of factors led to an existing shortage worsening to crisis level.
High temperatures in the US this summer have meant people are more selective about when they venture outside. Some facilities that intended to have blood drives have not been able to maintain a safe and comfortable environment for donors. The increased number of wildfires also diverted some resources, Lawrence said.
Impact on Routine Operations
The crisis is not limited to the US. Blood supplies in Canada have also declined, by nearly 20% since the start of June, according to Canadian Blood Services. "Over the past six weeks, appointments have fallen short by 1,500 to 2,500 each week, requiring a draw on existing inventory to meet patient needs," it said in a statement.
What's Next
The American Red Cross is urging people to donate blood to help alleviate the shortage. Lawrence said that supplies of every blood type are currently needed, but especially O positive, which is considered a universal blood type and can be given to people in an emergency when theirs is unknown. The organisation is having to dip "very, very low into our blood inventory," Lawrence said.
The crisis is a stark reminder of the importance of blood donations. With a finite shelf life, blood can only be stored for so long before it expires. The American Red Cross is counting on the public to step up and donate blood to help alleviate the shortage.
Source: Joy Online
