Urgent NHS appeal for O-type blood donors amid national shortage
The NHS is urgently asking for more people to donate blood because the current supply levels have dropped to an unusually low level.
O-negative blood, also referred to as the universal blood type, is suitable for all individuals in need of a blood transfusion. It accounts for approximately 16% of all blood transfusion requests at hospitals and is particularly useful in emergency situations or when a patient's blood type is not known.
Approximately 40% of people in the UK have O+ blood, while around 8% have O- blood.
NHS authorities have given a warning to hospitals in England, advising them to only use O-type blood for urgent situations.
Based on the most recent data from NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT), the amount of O-negative blood available nationwide is only enough for 1.6 days, falling short of the six-day goal. In contrast, there is a surplus of AB-positive blood with a supply lasting for 11.32 days.
The lack of blood supply has been linked to the cyber-attack on the NHS. Following the attack in early June, hospitals like King’s and Guy’s and St Thomas’ in London have had to rely on O-type blood because blood tests couldn't be done as fast as usual. This has caused a 94% rise in demand compared to the same time last year.
Dr. Jo Farrar, the NHS Blood and Transplant CEO, stated: "We are in urgent need of additional O-group donors to step forward and assist in increasing our stocks to aid patients in need of treatment."
"The response from our generous donors last month was amazing as they came forward to support our efforts in meeting the high demand for blood in June. However, even after seven weeks, the urgent need for O-negative blood is still a concern."
The National Health Service (NHS) has stated that it must gather 1.45 million units of blood and enlist around 200,000 new blood donors annually in order to replenish those who cease donating and guarantee a suitable variety of blood types for upcoming patients.
To schedule a time to donate blood, you can either call 0300 123 23 23 or go to the website blood.co.uk.
