Louth public urged to answer urgent appeal for blood donations
Irish Blood Transfusion Service has issued an urgent appeal for blood donations with supplies very low
The Irish Blood Transfusion Service (IBTS) has issued an urgent appeal for blood donations with supplies very low, following the impact of Storm Éowyn last Friday.
The IBTS is asking for immediate public and donor support to help recover the national blood supply, with current supplies under three days for many blood groups.
“In order to avoid putting further pressure on our hospital system, we need over 12,000 donations in the coming days and weeks, to restore the blood supply, and safely support our health service, ’ said Paul McKinney, Director of Donor Services and Logistics.
We also urgently need new donors, younger donors, donors of all ethnicities and in particular, those of African heritage.
“We are asking people who might never have given blood before, or it’s been a while, to make it their goal to give blood, and the priceless gift of life, to those in our communities and hospitals who need it,” added Mr McKinney.
For anybody interested in becoming a donor, register your interest at www.giveblood.ie where you will also find all clinic locations / opening hours and eligibility details, or call IBTS on 1800 731 137.
The IBTS needs to collect 3,200 units of blood every week to maintain the national blood supply.