Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
SALT LAKE CITY (Oct. 14, 2023) — Getting the flu shot and COVID-19 booster could be more important than ever as a severe flu season and possible overlapping COVID-19 resurgence might add to the current challenges that have led to a blood shortage. But even after getting a shot, it’s OK to donate blood and help shore up the blood supply.
The American Red Cross of Utah is encouraging the community to get their shots and then make an appointment to donate blood. Those who get the new RSV vaccine can also donate blood without any waiting period if they are symptom-free.
“We know many folks are getting their flu shots this year and are wondering if they can still donate blood after being vaccinated, whether it's the flu shot, COVID-19 booster or the new RSV vaccine,” said Dr. Walter Kelley, Medical Director for the Rocky Mountain Division of the American Red Cross. “Let's clear this up. Yes, you absolutely can. There's no need to wait after getting vaccinated to donate blood.”
This year has seen thousands of potential blood donations uncollected as severe weather events forced the closure of blood donation centers and the cancellation of blood drives across the country. Coupled with a summer-long slump in donations, this has left the country in urgent need of replenishing its blood supply. The last time the Red Cross declared a national blood emergency was in January 2022, which was the worst blood shortage in over a decade.
Currently, hospital demand for blood exceeds the rate of incoming donations, causing a 25% decrease in the Red Cross national blood supply. “There is a simple way for us to pull out of this nationwide blood emergency – more people in the community making the lifesaving decision to donate blood,” said Heidi Ruster, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region.
Help end the national blood shortage
The Red Cross plays a pivotal role in maintaining the country's blood supply, contributing around 40% of all collected blood. To meet the needs of patients at over 2,500 hospitals and transfusion centers, the Red Cross must collect 12,500 blood and 3,000 platelet donations daily. Donors can schedule an appointment using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
While all blood types are needed, there is a critical need for type O and platelet donors. Type O positive is the most frequently transfused blood type, while O negative serves as the universal donor and often used in emergency situations when the patient's blood type cannot be quickly determined. Platelets provide a unique blood product for hospital patients, like those fighting cancer.
Protect yourself, your family and the community
Health officials recommend everyone 6 months and older get their annual flu shot, ideally before the end of October. This year, for the first time, there is also an RSV vaccine to protect young children and people 60 years and older. People should talk to their doctors about whether RSV protection might also be needed for them or their children.
“COVID-19, flu and RSV continue to be a very real risk for many people,” Dr. Kelley said. “Safe and effective vaccines are the best way to protect against these viruses. They are especially important for those at higher risk of complications – people over 65, young children, pregnant women and those with medical conditions.”
Learn more about the flu, COVID-19 and RSV and the vaccines at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website: cdc.gov.
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 visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.
