Flu strains supply, blood donors needed
February 13, 2025 – Our Blood Institute is still 2,000 donations behind what’s needed to replenish the local blood supply, not including the 1,200 donations required daily to meet the regular needs of area hospitals, where usage has already increased. This shortage has worsened since declaring a blood emergency, as winter weather hit parts of our service area the morning after the appeal, leading to canceled blood drives and a drop in donations.
“Halfway is no way to save a life,” said Dr. John Armitage, president and CEO of Our Blood Institute. “We’ve extended hours, added drives and donors have started showing up—but not enough to make up lost ground. The need is still urgent. Please help us cross the finish line.”
The winter storm and harsh temperatures weren’t the only setbacks. A spike in flu cases has also impacted donor turnout, further straining the local blood supply.
“We were already facing a critical shortage when we declared a blood emergency, but the winter weather the next morning made the situation even more distressing,” Armitage added. “We haven’t been able to recover and are actually worse off than we were before the storm. The fall off in our Type O blood levels is especially concerning. We need donors to step up now more than ever.”
Successful donors will receive a limited-edition, Superhero-themed T-shirt. As an added thanks, donors who give between Thursday, February 13 and Saturday, February 15, will also receive a pair of Valentine’s sleep shorts, printed with blood drop hearts.
We urge all eligible donors to make an appointment today. Your donation is a direct lifeline for those in need. Visit obi.org/emergency to schedule your lifesaving donation now.
Anyone who is healthy and 16 years old* or older can give blood. Donation typically takes only about an hour, and one donation saves up to three lives. Appointments to donate can be made online at obi.org or by calling 877-340-8777. Walk-ins are also welcome.
*16-year-olds must weigh at least 125 pounds and provide signed parental permission; 17-year-olds must weigh at least 125 pounds; 18+ year olds must weigh at least 110 pounds. Photo ID required.
