‘2800 litres’: Urgent call for blood donations amid record demand, national shortage

A record surge in demand for blood, combined with the highest rate of appointment cancellations since the pandemic, is squeezing blood and plasma reserves.

Australian Red Cross Lifeblood has sounded the alarm over significant strain on its blood stocks after data showed record demand for blood between June and August.

After calling for 12,500 donors nationally to book in for a blood donation appointment in the next week, the organisation claimed it still needed another 6000 donors or around 2800 litres of blood to “stabilise low blood stocks”.

Lifeblood’s chief executive officer Stephen Cornelissen said a combination of record high winter demand, peak cancellations and seasonally lower appointment bookings had created a perfect storm.

“We’re used to seeing a spike in cancellations and lower appointment bookings during the winter months due to cold, flu and Covid-19, but this winter hit particularly hard,” he said.

“At the same time, we experienced our highest ever winter demand for blood, which has significantly impacted Lifeblood supplies.

“We’re urging anyone who is eligible and feeling healthy and well to book a donation immediately and help restore our blood stocks.”

The organisation reassured patients that anybody in an emergency would receive the blood they need, though confirmed some patients in less urgent situations may be left waiting.

“Right now, we need donors of all blood types. If you’ve never donated before, now is the time to start. Don’t wait for someone else to do it. Every donation counts,” Mr Cornelissen said.

Lifeblood said particular shortages were being felt across A and O type donors, though remained confident that the Australian blood donor community would respond to calls for assistance.

Lifeblood called on Aussies to book a donation by calling 13 14 95 or visiting lifeblood.com.au.