The Blood Service has called on 170 donors in the greater Launceston region to come forward and donate this fortnight to help reduce the effect of a blood shortage.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
There is a critical need for O-type blood donors as the nation’s reserve slips to just two days’ supply.
“These two blood types are essential. O-Negative is the universal type given to patients in emergency situations,” Australian Red Cross Blood Service spokesman Shaun Inguanzo said.
“And O Positive is the type that 39 percent of Australians have and therefore the most type needed, should they require a blood transfusion.”
Mr Inguanzo said maintaining blood supplies during winter was a challenge for the Blood Service.
“The number of people suffering cold and flu symptoms increases, limiting the number of regular donors who are able to give,” he said.
“We need others, in this case people with O Negative and O Positive blood, to take the place of those who will be unable to answer our call.”
To make an appointment call 13 14 95 or visit donateblood.com.au
Holly Monery
Holly Monery is a journalist for The Examiner newspaper, based in Launceston, Tasmania. Her main area of focus is local government.
Holly Monery is a journalist for The Examiner newspaper, based in Launceston, Tasmania. Her main area of focus is local government.
