The Irish Blood Transfusion Service are seeking the public’s support to help the national blood supply, as supplies fall low.
The IBTS described Sunday 29 October how some stocks have fallen to just three days’ supply. They aim to always have seven days’ supply on hand.
They are especially urging those with blood groups O-, A- and B- to donate blood.
High demands from hospitals, an increase in illness among some regular donors, and the recent poor weather conditions all have contributed to the blood supply shortage.
Paul McKinney, Director of Donor Services and Logistics says; “A pre-amber alert has been issued in line with the National Blood Shortage Plan for the Rh- Negative blood groups, which requests conservative use of blood by all hospitals.”
“All donations are needed to avoid any impact on our hospital system,” continued Mr McKinney.
Blood donations are extremely important, as it can save lives in a number of different scenarios.
Complications in childbirth, people with anaemia or cancer, surgeries, and car accidents are just some of the reasons people may need a blood transfusion.
There will be several donation clinics in Galway City and county and the surrounding areas over the coming weeks, with clinics in Oranmore, Terryland and Knocknacarra in November and into December.
There will be blood donation clinics in the University of Galway in March, according to a spokesperson for the IBTS.
Clinic information can be found on www.giveblood.ie. New donors can register under the ‘Become a Donor’ tab and register their details. A text will be sent with more information once your details are received.
Those interested can also take the eligibility quiz available on the website, in the ‘Can I Give Blood’ section of the website.
Donors must adhere to certain requirements, such as age, height, weight, medication, travel history and tattoos or piercings, so it’s best to check eligibility.
