New Jersey health officials are urging eligible residents to donate blood and platelets as the state faces a critical shortage. The combination of severe winter weather and a difficult flu season has led to dangerously low supplies.
“Blood and platelet donors save lives, and now we need every eligible New Jersey resident to step up and join their ranks,” said Acting Health Commissioner Dr. Raynard E. Washington. “Our healthcare system relies on selfless donors for essential blood products used every day in emergency surgeries, childbirth, cancer treatment, and many other medical procedures. That means today you can donate and save a life.”
Current blood supply levels are reported to be alarmingly low. The state has only a few days’ worth of type O, A, and B red cells available, along with less than one day’s supply of single-donor platelets.
Hospital requests for blood have recently outpaced the available supply, causing reserves to drop by about 35% over the past month. Officials warn that without immediate action, patients could face serious risks.
Three New Jersey blood banks are reporting severe shortages of both blood and platelets. On a national scale, the American Red Cross reported that more than 15,000 donations were missed due to winter storms.
Eligible individuals in New Jersey can learn more or schedule an appointment at local donation centers including the American Red Cross Services, Hunterdon Healthcare, Miller-Keystone Blood Center, New York Blood Center, RWJBarnabas Health, or Vitalant Blood Services.
