Stanford Blood Center is urging all eligible donors to give blood as soon as possible after its supply of O-positive blood dropped to a critically low level.
The center said it has just a one-day supply of O-positive blood available for its partner hospitals following increased demand over the recent holiday weekend. Summer travel, school closures, seasonal illnesses and fewer regular donors have all contributed to the shortage.
About 70 units of type O blood – one of the most commonly transfused blood types – are distributed to local hospitals each day. O-positive blood is essential for patients with Rh-positive blood and is often used in emergencies when a patient’s blood type is not immediately known.
Community members can schedule an appointment at stanfordbloodcenter.org, call (888) 723-7831, or text 999-777. Walk-ins are also welcome. Everyone who donates through July 31 will receive a collectible “Grateful for Life” tie-dye T-shirt.
