American Red Cross Declares Emergency Blood Shortage

(Learfield News/Minneapolis, MN) — The American Red Cross has declared an emergency blood shortage after donations fell nearly 25 percent in June, creating a growing gap between the blood supply and patient demand.

The organization says it is now distributing nearly 3,500 more units of blood to hospitals each week than expected.

Regional Communications Manager Samantha Solberg says summer is traditionally one of the most challenging times to collect donations, as school blood drives end and many regular donors travel or take vacations.

The Red Cross is encouraging all eligible donors to schedule an appointment as soon as possible to help rebuild the nation’s blood supply and ensure hospitals have the blood they need for emergencies and lifesaving treatments.