Concerns surrounding COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus, have negatively impacted blood donations. The Blood Connection reported that it has seen a drop in blood donor turnout and has faced an increase in blood drive cancellations. The Red Cross has reported around a 40% drop in blood supply due to fears of the virus, along with people getting the flu. The situation in the Upstate is similar to the situation around the country, a trend that could lead to blood shortages and could negatively affect hospitals.
The Blood Connection uses wellness screenings before all blood donations, and it has begun taking extra measures to ensure donors can give blood in a clean and safe location. It also has put together an internal team to monitor collection and inventory levels as well as preparing for COVID-19.
To host a blood drive or to make an appointment, please visit thebloodconnection.org or call 864-255-5000.
Blood Donations Needed
