Northern Nevada blood bank braces for shortage, seeks donors throughout summer
Northern Nevada's biggest blood bank has put a call out for donors, noting that it is expecting a significant shortfall of blood donations going into the July 4 holiday period.
Vitalant is asking citizens to help by giving blood now and throughout the remainder of the summer. The blood bank says it has seen fairly steady support from the local community, but there are still concerns about collecting enough blood to help patients.
Since early June, Vitalant has aimed at getting at least 4,200 donations by the Fourth of July. Currently, more than 3,900 donations have been collected towards that goal.
Donations from O-negative donors, the universal blood type, are especially important this time of year due to increased accidents and trauma cases, according to the blood bank.
The current O-negative blood supply sits at an approximate two-day supply, which is half of the ideal quantity needed to support patient needs. Additionally, platelet donations, which have a shelf-life of only five days, are always in high demand. However, donors of all types are needed.
“In addition to the typical summertime drop in donations, fewer donors are available because of the upcoming Fourth of July holiday,” said Scott Edward, senior donor recruitment manager at Vitalant. “This holiday week, celebrate by giving blood and doing something good for others — and yourself.”
Vitalant urges both existing and first-time donors of all blood types to visit vitalant.org or call 877-25-VITAL to schedule an appointment at one of our three Northern Nevada donation centers in Carson City, (256 E Winnie Lane) Reno and Sparks or at a mobile blood drive. Walk-ins are welcome.