Blood donations nationwide typically drop by more than one-third during the winter months
MINNESOTA – With holiday travel, seasonal illness and winter weather expected to strain the blood supply, Memorial Blood Centers (MBC) is urging folks to donate blood now, before winter shortages intensify and hospitals face increased demand. Blood donations nationwide typically drop by more than one-third during the winter months, even as trauma care, cancer treatment, transplants and surgeries continue uninterrupted.
To encourage donations during this critical period, all who come to donate between Saturday, December 20th and Friday, January 2nd will receive their choice of a festive pair of fuzzy socks or fleece-lined winter hat as a thank-you for helping patients in need.
“When donations slow down, hospitals feel it almost immediately,” said Kathy Geist, Vice President, Divisional Blood Operations at Memorial Blood Centers. “Every unit of blood represents a real person who took time out of their busy life to help someone they may never meet, whether it’s a child fighting cancer, a trauma patient after an accident, or a neighbor facing an unexpected surgery. Donating now, before winter challenges pile up, is one of the most powerful ways folks can care for each other during the holidays.”
MBC currently has just a three- to four-day supply of blood overall, leaving little margin for emergencies, severe weather or sudden spikes in hospital demand. Supplies of O-negative, O-positive and B-negative blood are critically low, with only a one- to two-day supply on hand, and donors are urgently needed.
In light of recent updates to FDA guidance, more people than ever may now be eligible to give. Blood donors can donate every 56 days, and platelet donors can give up to twice per month. To view current eligibility guidelines or make an appointment, visit mbc.org or call 1.888.448.3253.
Those unable to donate blood, as well as current blood donors who want to do even more, can support MBC’s End of Year Campaign, which raises critical funds to strengthen and ensure a safe and reliable blood supply. Every contribution supports lifesaving research, donor center upgrades, mobile blood drives, and education programs that inspire the next generation of blood donors. Learn more.
