Across the state and the nation, blood banks are facing a critical shortage in their blood reserves that are often relied upon to save lives. Here’s the need-to-know on the situation here in Colorado:
⚕️ Why is there a shortage? The blood shortage is largely due to COVID-19, after blood donation centers were forced to cancel blood drives at the height of the pandemic.
⚕️ What are centers in need of the most? All blood types are needed right now, but Type O is in the shortest supply. O-negative blood can be universally accepted by anyone, so it’s ideal for transfusion emergencies. The American Red Cross has also announced that Black donors are especially needed at the moment.
⚕️ Can anyone give blood? Mostly; but there are some restrictions around certain health conditions, HIV/AIDS risk, recent travel, and tattoos and piercings. You can check your eligibility here.
⚕️ Are there other ways to help? Many donation centers are currently understaffed and are offering signing bonuses as large as $5,000 for new phlebotomists.
⚕️ Where can I give blood or volunteer?
- Across the Front Range: Vitalant
- Near Denver: Children’s Colorado
- Serving northern Colorado: UCHealth Garth Englund Blood Center
- Serving western Colorado: St. Mary’s Medical Center
