With blood donations down significantly, the American Red Cross says it’s facing severe shortages at a time when flu cases are high, and as winter weather picks up in intensity.
The organization said in a news release that hundreds of blood drives were affected by extreme winter weather last month alone. It also reported that requests for blood from hospitals have exceeded supplies, so they’re calling for people to give blood now, so patients don’t face delays in lifesaving care.
To make an appointment, visit redcrossblood.org, or call (800) RED-CROSS.
Several blood drives are scheduled for the Rochester area through early February.
