The American Red Cross has declared an emergency blood shortage as of August 2024, with the national blood supply having decreased by over 25% since July 1.

This alarming drop in donations is attributed to record-breaking heat and summer vacations, which have significantly impacted blood donation rates.

Extreme temperatures have disrupted more than 100 blood drives across nearly all states in July, resulting in a loss of over 19,000 blood donations.

The Connecticut Blood Center reported only a three-day supply of type O blood, the lowest level since the start of the Covid pandemic.

Type O blood is especially vital for trauma victims receiving emergency treatment, making its availability crucial.

Dr. Eric Gehrie, executive physician director for the Red Cross, emphasized the urgent need for both O positive and O negative blood for patients in life-threatening situations.

The Red Cross is urgently calling for blood donors, particularly those with type O blood, which is frequently in short supply due to its universal compatibility for emergency transfusions.

Despite the drop in donations, the demand for blood products in hospitals remains high, raising concerns about availability for critical medical treatments.

To encourage donations, the Red Cross is offering a $20 Amazon gift card for those who donate blood, platelets, or plasma throughout August.

Individuals can make an appointment to donate blood via the Red Cross Blood Donor app, the website RedCrossBlood.org, or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

Donors of all blood types are encouraged to contribute to restock hospital supplies before patient care is affected.

Numerous blood donation drives are scheduled throughout Massachusetts in August 2024, with detailed dates and locations provided to facilitate participation.