Overview
- The American Red Cross reports its supply fell about 35% over the past month, straining hospitals and forcing triage of critical blood products.
- High flu activity and recent storms have sidelined donors, with more than 400 Red Cross blood drives disrupted in the past month.
- Hospitals emphasize urgent needs for type O, A negative and B negative blood, as well as platelets that must be used within about a week.
- The Red Cross urges immediate appointments via RedCrossBlood.org or the Blood Donor App, offering a Super Bowl trip drawing through Jan. 25 and $20 e‑gift cards from Jan. 26 to Feb. 28.
- Local efforts include Colorado lawmakers donating and recognizing National Blood Donor Month, while regions such as Southeast Michigan report dangerously low supplies and Denver Health stresses careful use of limited stock.