Blood Needed: Donate Safely March 19 In Rockland County

WEST NYACK, NY — Here's a way to help out during the new coronavirus outbreak. New York Blood Center’s Busmobile will be in the Palisades Center parking lot from noon to 6 p.m. March 19 in an effort to prevent blood shortages throughout the region.

Concerns over the virus — which has infected more than 127,000 people worldwide and caused about 4,700 deaths — have had far-reaching effects. In a series of drastic moves, the NBA, NHL and MLS suspended their seasons and the NCAA canceled March Madness tournaments. The PGA Tour canceled the Players Championship after the first round. The virus also prompted President Donald Trump to restrict travel from Europe in addition to China.

A huge percentage of blood donations in our region come from blood drives that are hosted by high schools, colleges, community organizations and businesses, NYBC officials said. As these groups take precautions in response to the spread of the virus officially known as COVID-19, a growing number of blood drives for the months of March and April have been canceled.

That poses a significant threat to the blood supply.

"Every donation at every blood drive is critical," said Christopher D. Hillyer, MD, President and CEO of New York Blood Center. "As healthy, eligible donors, we have a responsibility to our neighbors to keep the blood supply safe and robust. A resilient healthcare system is more important than ever and we’re counting on everyone to help maintain that."

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Donating blood is safe and the NYBC staff are trained in universal precautions to help prevent the risk of spreading infectious agents. They are also regularly cleaning public surfaces.

As always, people are not eligible to donate if they’re experiencing a cold, sore throat, respiratory infection or flu-like symptoms. Donors should refrain from donating if they have come into contact with anyone who has a confirmed case of COVID-19.

"We are happy to provide space for NYBC’s Busmobile and support their efforts to increase the community blood supply," said Darrin Houseman, General Manager of Palisades Center.

Schedule an appointment online. Appointments are preferred, but walk-ins are always welcome. Donors must remember to eat, drink and bring their DONOR ID or ID with name and photo.

For eligibility information visit www.nybc.org or call (800) 933-2566.

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