LOS ANGELES, Aug. 5, 2024 — The American Red Cross is experiencing an emergency blood shortage as the nation faces dangerous levels of heat and people head out for final summer travel plans. Since July 1, the Red Cross national blood supply has fallen by more than 25%, and blood donors of all types, especially those with type O blood, are urged to give as soon as possible to help patients receive lifesaving medical care.

Heat impacted almost 100 blood drives in July in nearly every state where the Red Cross collects blood – compounding other seasonal obstacles to blood donation, such as travel and summer activities. Together these factors contributed to a shortfall of more than 19,000 blood donations in July. At the same time, hospital demand for blood products remains strong. Blood products are being sent to hospitals faster than donations are coming in. Right now, type O inventory is so low, distributions of this vital blood type are reduced below what hospitals count on.

“It’s critical hospitals have both type O positive and O negative blood ready to go for patients in the most life-threatening situations,” said Dr. Eric Gehrie, executive physician director for the Red Cross. “Type O is especially important for victims of accidents and other trauma who are receiving emergency treatment. Now is the time for donors of all blood types to give and ensure hospital shelves can be restocked before any impact to patient care.”

The Red Cross is working with hospitals around-the-clock to meet the blood needs of patients – but can’t do it alone. To make an appointment, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

As a thank-you, those who come give blood, platelets or plasma Aug. 1-31, 2024, will get a $20 Amazon.com Gift Card by email. For details, visit RedCrossBlood.org/Help.

Who donations help

Christina Rodriguez knows firsthand how important a readily available blood supply is as blood transfusions have saved her life. As a first-time mom, Rodriguez faced life-threatening hemorrhaging and blood loss. Urged by doctors, and encouraged by her loved ones, Rodriguez received a lifesaving blood transfusion.

“I couldn't imagine my son living without a mom,” Rodriguez said. “It’s so important to donate blood or to receive blood. It can make such a big difference in your health; you need it to survive. You need it to be around for your family.”

Rodriguez learned that every time she gave birth there would be the possibility of hemorrhaging. Which she did. She went through the transfusion process two more times, the second involving an emergency C-section with her son London and the third time with her son Elijah. Armed with experience and first-hand knowledge, she felt comfortable and came to trust the transfusion process. 

A sufficient blood supply is critical to being able to provide timely care for all patients in need of lifesaving blood transfusions. It's the blood on the shelves that helps in times of emergency. All blood types are needed, and platelet donors and type O blood donors are especially urged to donate now. 

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.