Community Corner
Red Cross Hosts Pop Up Blood Drive In Annapolis March 23-25
The Red Cross says there is now a severe blood shortage due to an unprecedented number of blood drive cancellations during the coronavirus.
ANNAPOLIS, MD — Blood supplies are running low right now, so the Red Cross is hosting a Pop-Up Blood Drive event that will take place at the City of Annapolis’ “Pip” Moyer Recreation Center Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. According to the Red Cross, there is now a severe blood shortage due to an unprecedented number of blood drive cancellations during the new coronavirus outbreak. The Red Cross is seeking eligible and healthy donors.
All blood drive participants will be pre-screened and given an appointment time. To schedule a donation, call 800-733-2767 (800 RED CROSS) or follow this link. Only donors with appointments will be seen.
“I give blood every time I get notice that I’m eligible,” said Annapolis Mayor Gavin Buckley in a statement. “We need to help those in need. Please make an appointment and give blood if you can.”
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The Red Cross is requiring donors and staff to take special precautions, including temperature screening, enhanced disinfecting, social distancing, staff wellness and protection, and increased education materials.
Find out what's happening in Annapolisfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Pampee Young, M.D., Ph.D, and chief medical officer of the Red Cross, notes that there have been no reported cases of any respiratory virus being transmitted by blood, including COVID-19. Individuals who have traveled to China, Hong Kong, Macau, Italy or South Korea, as well as individuals who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 or have come into contact with a person who has or is suspected of having the virus will not be allowed to donate. The Red Cross asks these individuals to postpone donating for 28 days following any of the above situations.
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