Blood donors wanted in Fresno as demand grows

FRESNO, Calif. ( KSEE/KGPE ) – Due to a critically low blood supply, the Central California Blood Center is encouraging people to donate to save other people’s lives -mostly during the summer, when they say demand is high.

According to the Central California Blood Center officials, demand for blood is high during the summer due to the increase in trauma cases and emergency room visits.

The increased travel, vacation schedules, and the closure of schools that host many blood drives cause the blood centers to have a blood shortage during this time.

Every type of blood is welcome, but officials say blood supply for types O- and O are especially low.

Christopher Staub with the Central California Blood Center in Clovis says hospitals have a minimum level of blood supply, which they are expected to fill once is reached. He says as of Friday, they are at less than a one-day supply.

“When I say that we’re at less than one day’s supply of blood, particularly type O blood, what that means is with the normal pattern of usage, there’s not enough for one full day,” he said. “We need 5,000 units of blood to be donated each month in order to meet the current needs in the Central Valley.”

Everybody is encouraged to donate. Staub says the center has air conditioning so donors can be comfortable during the heat.

He says their need for blood is urgent and encourages donors to come in and donate.

He advises possible donors to drink plenty of water before donating their blood. The process will take around 10 to 12 minutes, and afterward, donors are advised to stay in the center and rest. The center will also offer them cookies, juice, and other snacks.

The Central California Blood Center has several donation centers across the Valley. To check a center near you, click here and select “Donation Center.”

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