The American Red Cross type O blood supply is critically low.
That's why the organization is urging eligible donors to give blood as soon as possible to help patients facing trauma and other life-threatening situations. Right now, the Red Cross says it has less than a two-day supply of type O blood available for emergency rooms.
This means just six units of type O blood are available for every 100,000 people, but at least 14 are needed every day.
While just 7% of the U.S. population has type O negative blood, it can be transfused to patients with any blood type and is what hospital staff reach for during emergencies when there isn’t time to determine a patient’s blood type. Type O positive blood is the most transfused blood type and is also critical in trauma situations.
As a thank-you, all donors who give blood and platelets now through June 10 will receive a $5 Amazon.com gift card via email.
The Red Cross collected approximately 11,500 fewer type O blood donations than needed to sustain a sufficient blood supply. Spring break schedules are known to decrease blood donations, and schools, including high schools and colleges, begin to host fewer blood drives in late spring as school years end.
To donate, click here .