Blood donors sought as supply dips critically low

Nonprofit blood services provider Vitalant has a critical blood and platelet shortage and is urging all eligible donors to make an appointment now.

Type O blood, which is the most transfused blood type and is vital to helping patients in emergencies, has plummeted to under a two-day supply — its lowest level since May 2020.

Blood donations are going out to about 900 hospitals Vitalant serves nationwide, including approximately 35 in eastern Washington, Idaho and Kalispell region. Scheduling and keeping donation appointments are both critical to meeting patient needs.

“Compared to the beginning of the pandemic, patient needs are stronger than we expected,” said Cliff Numark, Vitalant senior vice president. “We’re seeking about 1,000 additional volunteer donors to make and keep an appointment each week for the foreseeable future to ensure Vitalant can help trauma victims, cancer patients and critical surgeries.”

Vitalant is also experiencing a critical shortage of platelet donations. Platelets are tiny cells that help blood clot. They must be transfused within about a week of donation and about 50% of platelets are given to cancer patients undergoing treatment.

“This low inventory is especially concerning as traditionally, Vitalant sees robust collections and good inventory in October,” said Jennifer Hawkins, regional director. “It is critical for people to donate now.”

With only three out of 100 people donating despite most being eligible, and blood transfusions occurring every two seconds, the needs of many rest on a few, Vitalant said in a press release. Blood is perishable and must be constantly replenished. It is the blood on the shelf that saves patients during emergencies.

Those who receive a Food and Drug Administration authorized Covid-19 vaccine or seasonal flu vaccine can give blood immediately if other eligibility requirements are met. Donors must feel well on the day of their donation.

To learn more and schedule an appointment to donate, visit vitalant.org or call 877-25-VITAL (877-258-4825). Walk-ins are also welcome. Vitalant follows strict protocols to ensure the safety of donors, patients, and staff, including social distancing and other precautions. To support a safe environment and most efficiently follow the latest CDC guidance, masks are required for all donors, staff, volunteers and guests at Vitalant blood drives and facilities regardless of vaccination status.

The Vitalint Blood Donation Center is located at 2593 LaSalle Road, Suite 1, U.S. 2 E., Kalispell.