Nebraska Community Blood Bank declares blood emergency

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – A blood emergency was declared on Monday by the Nebraska Community Blood Bank as supplies hit one to two-day levels.

The group says that the shortage has been consistent for many weeks and they are struggling to receive donations.

Throughout the summer, maintaining the ideal level of a five to seven-day supply is difficult as families take advantage of the warm weather.  The facility has also held fewer blood drives due to ongoing staffing shortages.

“The shortage of available blood has led us to declare another blood emergency,” said Cheryl Warholoski, director of operations.  “We are again calling on community members to come out and we also ask that local companies encourage time off for their employees to fill available appointments in the coming weeks.”

The blood bank supplies blood to 24 hospitals throughout the region and says one in seven admissions require a blood transfusion.

Blood donations take about an hour and can save up to three lives.  Platelet donations take approximately two hours and are critically needed in local hospitals.

To schedule an appointment at a local donor center or blood drive visit NCBB.ORG/donate or call 877-486-9414.