The Arkansas Blood Institute is issuing an urgent call for donors of all blood types due to an emergency blood shortage.
The Institute claims the shortage is due to widespread illnesses like the flu. Blood drive cancellations and several days of winter weather have also contributed to the low number of donations.
"We're running about a half day to day’s worth of blood inventory for our hospitals here and we usually stay three to five days ahead of time," said Paulette Nieuwenhof, Executive Director of Arkansas Blood Institute.
Even with the shortage, Arkansas Blood Institute is making sure all hospitals are getting what they need. In an emergency, they can reach out to other blood banks to replenish their stock.
"All orders have been filled and will continue to be filled," Nieuwenhof said.
Levels have reached a less than one-day supply. The institute typically maintains a three to five day supply for local hospitals.
“Because close to a quarter of our blood collections comes from school blood drives, school closings can be devastating to our inventory. With Spring Break around the corner, our schools and universities will be out again, and many people will be leaving the state for vacation. So, it is imperative to replenish the supply right away,” said John Armitage, M.D., president and CEO of Arkansas Blood Institute in a news release. “We are calling on all healthy Arkansans to take about an hour of their time to give blood for our friends and neighbors in need.”
All healthy adults, ages 16 and up, are encouraged to donate as soon as possible. Appointments to give blood are not required but can be made by calling 1-877-340-8777.
You can stop by any of the following donor center locations to donate:
Little Rock, 101 South Shackleford Road, Ste. 2
North Little Rock, 4548 John F. Kennedy Blvd
Hot Springs, 149 Section Line Road, Ste. G
Russellville, 1003 West Main
Fort Smith, 5300 S. U St.