LA JOLLA, CA — La Jolla residents are being urged this week to donate blood after the American Red Cross declared a national blood crisis for only the second time in its history, citing a sharp decline in summer donations that has left supplies critically low.
The Red Cross said summer blood donations have fallen to their lowest level in four years, and donations are still not keeping pace with hospital demand despite thousands of additional donors responding since the crisis was first announced earlier this month.
All blood types are needed, but officials said the shortage is most severe for type O blood. The organization has started limiting distributions of type O blood products to hospitals, and its supply of type O-positive blood has dropped below a one-day inventory.
The Red Cross attributed the shortage to extreme heat, poor air quality and widespread foodborne illnesses that have reduced donor turnout this summer.
"This summer has brought a number of unique challenges that have placed additional strain on our blood supply, creating growing concerns for hospitals and the patients who rely on lifesaving transfusions," said Paul Sullivan, senior vice president of donor services.
As an incentive, donors who give blood through July 31 will receive a Fandango movie ticket by email worth up to $15. Those who donate Aug. 1-31 will receive a $20 Amazon gift card by email, according to the organization.
The Red Cross has planned blood drives across the county, including in La Jolla. See a list of upcoming San Diego area blood drives below.
Bonita
Carlsbad
Chula Vista
Encinitas
Escondido
Fallbrook
La Jolla
Oceanside
San Diego
San Marcos
Santee
What To Know About Giving Blood
All blood types are needed. Download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) for more information or to make an appointment.
A blood donor card or driver's license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in.
Individuals who are 17 in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
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