Critical blood stock shortage in KZN and SA
The country’s blood stocks remain at critical levels.
That is despite increased efforts by donors to remedy the situation. Of major concern are the depleted reserves of Group O blood type. The SA National Blood Service says the country has just 1-and-a-half days supply of the group.
The SANBS says KZN’s situation is dire. Spokesperson, Sifiso Khoza, says they’ve started looking at other means of collecting units.
"We have been importing a few units of blood. The bad news, however, is that it is no longer a KZN crisis. It is now a national crisis," he said.
Khoza says they urge anyone who can to come forward and donate blood.
"I would like to urge anyone to take 30 minutes of their time to come forward and donate. Most of our donor centres are open during the weekend and people can call our toll-free number which is 0800 119 031 to find out where their nearest donor centre is," Khoza said.
He says cancer patients and women who experience difficulties during childbirth are at the greatest due to the shortage.