Millennials and Generation Z are being asked to step up and save the nation’s blood supply.
In a plea to young people, the Surgeon General on Thursday asked more people to donate blood but specifically asked those under 40. Dr. Jerome Adams’ comments came during a news conference on coronavirus. The Red Cross this week announced they are dangerously short of blood supplies as hundreds of blood drives across the country have been cancelled.
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The nation’s highest medical officer shared that the country’s blood supply is an “essential part” in the care of patients. Though elective surgery is being put off for hundreds of thousands across the country, blood is still essential. The Red Cross says that every two seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood. It is essential for surgeries, cancer treatment, chronic illnesses, and traumatic injuries.
Donating blood is one of the most important things Millinnials and other young Americans can do during the coronavirus crisis. Data shows that blood from one donation can save up to three lives.
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Contrary to some media reports, blood donation centers remain open while blood drives on college campuses and churches have been shuttered. The Red Cross, the nation’s most recognizable blood donation organizer, says that at least 2,700 blood drives have been canceled in the U.S. after mass closings closed the regular locations where they are held. Just in one week, the cancellations meant 86,000 fewer donations.
If more people do not donate blood, deaths are likely to occur.
Adams reassured the public that it’s still OK to donate blood.
“I want Americans to know that blood donation is safe,” Adams stated. “Blood centers are taking extra precautions at this time based on new CDC recommendations, including spacing…, disinfecting surfaces between patients, temperature-checking staff and encouraging donors to make appointments ahead of time so we can space them out.”
The Red Cross says that 36,000 pints of blood are needed each day in the U.S.
To find a blood drive hosted by the American Red Cross, visit there website and put in your zip code.
–Dwight Widaman | Metro Voice