Call for donors as O+ blood stocks hit critically low levels

Blood donation takes 30 minutes of your time and you can donate every 56 days.

The Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) is appealing to all eligible donors to donate blood as blood stocks are critically low.

“We always aim to have a blood stock level of five-days. Currently, there is a critical shortage in the O+ blood group, with only a two-day supply left,” said the service’s spokeswoman Marike Gevers..

“We encourage all blood donors to make saving lives part of their new year by committing to donating blood at least four times a year,” she added.

Each donor who successfully donates a unit of blood in January will receive a limited-edition WCBS face mask.

If you are between the ages of 16 and 75, weigh 50kg or more, are in good general health and lead a safe sexual lifestyle, you should be able to donate.

Blood donation takes 30 minutes of your time, and you can donate every 56 days.

To find your closest blood-donation clinic, download the WCBS app on Android and iOS, send a WhatsApp to 060 549 7244 or visit wcbs.org.za for more information.