Help During Coronavirus Outbreak: Where To Give Blood In MoCo

GAITHERSBURG, MD — Giving blood is one way people can help out during the coronavirus pandemic. People may leave their homes to give blood, according to the governor, who this week issued a stay-at-home order.

Blood donations help provide transfusions for surgeries, victims of car crashes, cancer patients, and other emergency situations.

"As the coronavirus pandemic has grown here in the U.S., we have seen blood drive cancellations grow at an alarming rate," the American Red Cross said in a statement.

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More than 10,000 blood drives have been canceled over coronavirus fears as of Wednesday, resulting in about 300,000 fewer donations.

People can schedule appointments online or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

Here are some blood drives in Montgomery County with appointments available as of publication:

• Rockville Blood Donation Center — 11820 Parklawn Drive, Suite 510, Rockville
• Montgomery County Fairgrounds — 16 Chestnut St., Gaithersburg

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the Red Cross is requiring donors and staff to take special precautions, including temperature screening, social distancing throughout the donation process and enhanced disinfecting procedures. Hand sanitizer will be provided throughout the donation process.

Only donors with appointments will be seen.

See eligibility requirements to give blood outlined by the Red Cross.

SEE ALSO:

• The Show Must Go Online: Strathmore Adapts In Age Of Coronavirus
• Montgomery County Hospitals Getting $10M In Coronavirus Aid
• $20M Relief Fund Approved For Montgomery Businesses: Coronavirus