Heading into the summer, blood donations are critical
The New York Blood Center (NYBC) is facing a blood emergency as hospitals in the New York metro area struggle to fill their blood banks. In the last three weeks, donations have fallen short by 2,100 pints, according to the NYBC, which is the primary provider of blood products for these hospitals.
The shortage can be attributed to a seasonal drop in donations that typically occurs before and after Memorial Day weekend. This decrease in donors has led to the NYBC’s second blood emergency this year, with the previous one occurring in January due to low donor turnout during the holiday season and inclement winter weather.
The current situation is particularly concerning because the summer months often bring about a spike in traumatic injuries, earning it the name “trauma season.” Dr. Alexander J. Indrikovs, senior director of transfusion medicine at Northwell Health, highlights this issue, stating, “With more hours of daylight and increased outdoor activities during the warmer months, people are more likely to sustain injuries that may require blood transfusions.”
At present, the region only has a two-day supply of blood types O- and B-, which is far below the optimal level of five to seven days. These two blood types are in high demand and urgently needed. To address this critical shortage, the NYBC is calling for platelets and all blood types to be donated.
To donate blood and help alleviate this emergency situation, individuals can visit nybc.org/donate-blood for more information. By donating, you can make a significant difference and provide essential support to hospitals in need.
 is facing a blood emergency as hospitals in the New York metro area struggle to fill their blood banks. Donate blood and help alleviate this emergency situation. Visit nybc.org/donate-blood for more information.){kind=link}