Red Cross declares crisis over blood supply shortage in US for 2nd its history
7 hours ago
- The American Red Cross has declared a blood supply crisis in the US for only the second time in its 150-year history, citing critically low levels.
- Factors such as wildfires, extreme heat, and food-borne illnesses have worsened the shortage, reducing supply by a quarter in the last month.
- Demand for blood typically rises in summer due to more car accidents and outdoor injuries, but current distribution is 3,500 units above normal, straining inventory.
- Blood has a 42-day shelf life, preventing long-term stockpiling, with all types needed urgently, especially O positive.
- Hospitals may delay routine operations or divert patients due to insufficient blood, as seen in both the US and Canada, where donations have dropped 20% since June.