Hurricane Sandy hinders blood and platelet donations

Hurricane Sandy has forced the cancellation of approximately 300 American Red Cross blood drives in 14 states along the East Coast, resulting in a shortfall of nearly 9,000 blood and platelet donations.

The shortfall is expected to grow as Sandy is causing power outages and flooding in many areas. All eligible donors in unaffected parts of the country are encouraged to roll up a sleeve and give blood or platelets.

While Hurricane Sandy affects the number of people available to donate, patients will still need blood and platelets despite the weather.

All blood types are needed to ensure an adequate blood supply is available during a disaster, especially type O positive, O negative, A negative and B negative blood.

A blood donor card or driver’s license, or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age or older (16 with parental permission in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age or younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

Call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information.

HOW TO HELP

The following is an upcoming blood drive in the area:

--November 6, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Armory, 311 Broadway Street, Alexandria

Tags: local news, state news, blood drive, news, hurricane