The American Red Cross has declared a national blood crisis, citing donations at a four-year summer low and critically low levels of type O blood, which is essential for patients across the United States.
The organization is now limiting distributions of type O blood to hospitals, as the national supply of type O positive blood has fallen to less than one day's worth. Type O blood comprises approximately 60% of the Red Cross's blood distributions and is vital for both routine patient care and emergency situations. Type O positive is the most commonly transfused blood type and can be given to about 80% of patients, while type O negative is considered the universal blood type.
This shortage threatens the availability of lifesaving blood for patients nationwide. The Red Cross stated that an increase of just three additional donors at each blood drive could help stabilize the national supply.
Several factors have contributed to the decline in donations this summer, including extreme heat, poor air quality, and a rise in foodborne illnesses, which have led to lower donor turnout. Other blood collection organizations have also reported critical shortages during the summer months.
Chris Hrouda, president of Red Cross Biomedical Services, acknowledged the organization's responsibility as the nation's largest single provider of blood products. He noted that following the first national blood crisis in January 2022, the Red Cross implemented safeguards to prevent future shortages. However, Hrouda stated that this summer, blood donations have not kept pace with hospital demand, particularly for type O blood, and the organization urgently needs eligible individuals to schedule appointments to donate.
Americans can schedule a blood donation appointment using the Blood Donor App, by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).