Red Cross declares national crisis, local blood drives planned

THE GORGE — The American Red Cross recently declared a national blood crisis, the second in the organization’s history.

The only other time the Red Cross has declared a national blood crisis was in January 2022, during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Summer donations have dropped to a four-year low, and hospitals across the country are feeling the impact. “Extreme heat, poor air quality and widespread foodborne illnesses are contributing to lower donor turnout this summer, further straining the nation’s blood supply,” said a Red Cross media release.

Type O blood supplies are especially critical, with type O positive inventory currently below a one-day supply.

“Blood is needed every two seconds for trauma victims, cancer patients, surgeries, and other medical emergencies,” said the media release. “Donors with all blood types are needed so that hospitals and patients can receive the blood that is needed. We never know when ourselves, or a loved one, will need a blood transfusion.”