Blood stock levels down
National blood stock levels are down and the SANBS requires a minimum of five days stock
BLOOD stocks are in the red again and the South African National Blood Services (SANBS) reported only a three day supply in its bank.
The public has been urged to help boost supplies as SANBS needs a minimum of five days’ reserve at all times.
September is traditionally a difficult time owing to preliminary school exams and the short school holidays, says KZN SANBS Head of Marketing, Charles Maharaj.
As there are not enough corporate blood drives to fill the gaps left by the absence of school and tertiary institution donors, SANBS want to make blood donations more convenient for the public by ensuring that blood drives are conducted at places of work or convenient public venues.
They are targeting companies and areas where there are a minimum of 200 people able to make donations.
‘The organisation is appealing to businesses and community centres to support the initiative.
‘Blood donation is not a priority in people’s lives and often they find it difficult to make the time.
‘If your company, community organisation or school is interested in hosting a blood drive visit, call 0800 119031 or www.sanbs.org.za and simply fill in the application form,’ said Maharaj.
