'Unprecedented 2nd Blood Shortage, Lowest Since Covid-19' In NY After 4th of July Holiday, Storms' Aftermath

NEW YORK, NY — The New York Blood Center said Wednesday that there is an unprecedented second blood emergency this summer after the regional blood supply fell to its lowest level since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Just weeks after declaring a blood emergency around Memorial Day, the blood center is "urgently calling on the public to donate blood," officials said.

"This unprecedented second blood emergency is due to a combination of factors, including extreme heat, severe storms, prolonged power outages, and ongoing storm cleanup, all of which have significantly reduced donor turnout," officials said.

Overall blood inventory has fallen to around two days of supply, well below the level needed to reliably support hospitals and patients across the region.

The universal blood type O- is "especially needed" as it stands at less than half a day's supply.

The blood center has never before declared two blood emergencies in a single summer.

It employs sophisticated forecasting tools, donor engagement strategies, community partnerships, and operational programs to maintain a stable blood supply throughout the year. But this summer, however, multiple factors have converged at the same time, creating extraordinary pressure on the region's blood inventory.

The blood center's Chief Operating Officer of Blood and Laboratory Operations, Andrea Cefarelli, said staffers "prepare for seasonal challenges every year, but the combination of extreme weather, disrupted routines, and low national inventories has created an unprecedented situation."

"Normally, when one region experiences shortages, blood centers across the country can help support one another," she said. " Unfortunately, blood inventories are low nationwide, limiting that safety net. We need our local communities to step forward now."

The blood center is asking healthy, eligible donors — especially those with Type O blood — to schedule an appointment as soon as possible.

Every donation can help ensure blood is available for trauma victims, cancer patients, individuals living with sickle cell disease and thalassemia, transplant recipients, and patients undergoing surgeries or other lifesaving treatments.

The organization is also asking employers, community organizations, schools, faith-based groups, elected officials, media partners, and local leaders to help spread the message and encourage blood donation throughout the coming days.

Blood donors can donate every 56 days, and platelet donors can give up to twice per month. 

In light of recent updates to FDA guidance, more people than ever may now be eligible to give.

Appointments are encouraged but walk-in donors are welcome. To view current eligibility guidelines or make an appointment, donors can call 1-800-933-2566 or visit nybc.org.