The Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) has made an urgent appeal to people to donate blood, as blood stocks are in danger of running out completely, a threatening prospect described by the the WCBS as reaching ‘Day Zero’.
The WCBS stocks have run out speedily as a result of increasing needs for blood transfusions and eligible donors are urged to locate their nearest blood donation clinic or office in order to donate as soon as possible.
Western Cape Premier, Alan Winde has in an official statement issued on Tuesday May 17, called on people to assist. “The Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) has informed us that their blood supply is critically low, with just 1-day’s supply left. I am therefore calling on the residents to please donate as soon as possible.”
According to the WCBS, there is a critical shortage in numerous blood groups including a 1-day supply left for O blood groups and a 2-day for B and A blood groups.
“By donating blood, you could save up to three people’s lives. The blood you donate today can help people who have suffered severe and traumatic injuries, given childbirth, suffer from anaemia or have blood disorders, as well as people who are receiving treatment for cancer,” he added.
For more information on where to donate blood, people can download the WCBS app, (available on Android or iOS mobile phones) visit, www.wcbs.org.za or send a WhatsApp to 060 549 7244.
