By Trish Svoboda

The American Red Cross announced in a release it is currently facing a critical blood shortage, with the nation experiencing the lowest number of blood donors in two decades. Across the country, the Red Cross blood supply has reached dangerously low levels. Donors are encouraged to schedule appointments and help address the shortage.

Over the past 20 years, there has been a 40% decline in blood donations to the Red Cross. The release states there has been a shortfall of nearly 7,000 units between Christmas and New Year’s Day alone. This shortage is affecting the availability of blood products, particularly type O, one of the most frequently used blood types in transfusions.

Dr. Eric Gehrie, the executive physician director for the Red Cross, notes the critical role of blood donations in medical procedures and urges donors, especially those with type O blood and those able to give platelets, to contribute immediately. Future challenges, such as potential severe winter weather and seasonal illnesses further stress the need for increased blood donations.