Low numbers of blood donations in July have significantly diminished reserves, the Belgian Red Cross has warned. The organisation is urgently calling on the public to donate blood.
July and August often put significant strain on blood stocks needed by hospitals. The decline in donations is primarily due to school holidays, and a lack of collections in schools and companies. Although blood reserves were high in May and June, the organisation predicts that stocks in the coming weeks will be insufficient to ensure quality service in hospitals.
People above the age of 18, who weigh at least 50 kg and are in good health can usually qualify to be a donor. Those interested in knowing if they meet the criteria can also take a test online.
The Red Cross underscored the importance of blood donations from negative blood groups, especially from the 'universal donors'. Units of type O negative blood are frequently used by hospitals when either the patient's blood group is unknown, or compatible blood types are unavailable. Thus, while only 6% to 7% of the general population is group O negative, it covers 11% to 12% of transfusions.
Those interested in donating blood can arrange an appointment online or call the free number 0800/92245.
As of 1 July, the Western Nile Virus (WNV) no longer excludes potential donors, the Red Cross added. A new standardised test is in place that can detect the WNV, and donors who have passed through a WNV zone therefore no longer need to be rejected.
