Inova's Blood Supply Need Will Continue; Extra Precautions Taken

FAIRFAX, VA — Inova has announced all blood drives are canceled until further notice, but blood donations will continue at donor centers with precautions accounting for the coronavirus outbreak. The health system says community support has left the blood supply in good shape, but that could change. With the need for blood donations expected to continue, donors who are healthy are needed to sign up for appointments in the next six weeks.

The donor centers include CentreMed Donor Center in Centreville, Dulles Donor Center in Sterling, Inova Mount Vernon Hospital Donor Center in Hybla Valley and Woodburn Donor Center in Annandale. CentreMed Donor Center, Dulles Donor Center and Woodburn Donor Center will have expanded hours from March 29 to at least April 4. All donor centers are closed Friday, March 27.

Inova will continue to need blood donations since blood donations have a shelf life of 42 days, while platelet donations have a shelf life of five days. Blood donation appointments are especially needed beginning the week of April 13. Inova has adjusted donation schedules to promote social distancing. Walk-in appointments are not accepted at this time.

Inova staff are taking precautions to keep donors safe during the process. Donor centers are professionally cleaned and disinfected daily, and the donor beds, chairs and other surfaces are wiped down after each use. Staff use single-use items such as disposable gloves, lancets, needles and blood bags. Additional hand sanitizing station have been set up at donor centers, and staff practice hand sanitizer during the process. Chairs in waiting and donation areas are spaced out to promote social distancing.

Individuals should only proceed with blood donations if they're feeling healthy on the day of the appointment. Donors should consider reasons for deferring a blood donation if applicable. For more information on donating blood, visit www.inovablood.org/inovabloodupdate.