The American Red Cross says they are facing a severe blood shortage.

The American Red Cross says they are facing a severe blood shortage and urgently need blood and platelet donors now to avoid delays in lifesaving medical care for patients. Volunteer blood drive hosts are also critically needed to prevent the shortage from worsening this winter. Fewer blood drives in September and October coupled with hurricanes Michael and Florence were key contributing factors to the current blood shortage. During September and October, the Red Cross collected over 21,000 fewer blood and platelet donations than what hospitals needed. Blood donors of all blood types, especially type O, and platelet donors are urged to make an appointment to donate at RedCrossBlood.org or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS. An additional 4,300 blood drives nationally are needed in December, January and February to help stop the shortage from continuing throughout winter. Those interested in hosting a blood drive should go to RedCrossBlood.org/HostADrive.

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