The disruption caused by Hurricane Matthew earlier this month included blood supply, according to American Red Cross officials.
The need for blood is “urgent” as 110 drives were canceled in Georgia and three other Southeastern states because of the storm, spokeswoman Kristen Stancil said Thursday. Also, there’s an emergency need for platelets, which is a component of blood that is used with cancer patients and bone-marrow recipients.
About 3,500 donations went uncollected, Stancil said.
All blood types are needed, she said, particularly O-negative, which is the “universal donor” that is widely used in emergencies.
The situation is compounded by the arrival of cold and flu season, which prevents many regular donors from giving.
People can find a location to donate via the American Red Cross blood donor app by visiting redcrossblood.org, or calling 800-733-2767. Anyone interested in hosting a blood drive can contact the Red Cross.
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