According to the American Red Cross, blood used in an emergency is already on the shelves before the event occurs. But recently, the organization said winter weather has impacted collections, causing a shortfall in blood types O, A negative and B negative. Every two seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood. More than 41,000 blood donations are needed every day. In Virginia and North Carolina, this season’s severe weather and cold temperatures have caused the Red Cross to cancel more than 50 blood drives, resulting in 1,700 fewer blood and platelet donations than expected. Now the Red Cross is making an urgent plea for blood and platelet donations. To find a donation center or upcoming in event visit: www.redcrossblood.org/midatlantic.
Menu