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Red Cross launches appeal for blood donors ahead of summer holidays

09:45 02/06/2023

The Belgian Red Cross has launched a new urgent appeal for blood donations ahead of the summer holidays, citing “very critical” stocks.

The organisation warned that it might not be able to meet hospitals’ demands if the supply is not increased.

Stocks of blood group O Negative, a universal donor, are particularly affected by the shortage.

Blood donation is becoming increasingly rare, with fewer people offering to donate.

“The spring holidays and successive bank holidays have significantly reduced the blood service's stocks in the space of a few weeks,” the Red Cross said.

“The month of June is marked by World Blood Donor Day, on 14 June. This year, this world day marks all its meaning and all its importance.”

On that day, all Red Cross blood service sites will be open until 19.00, later than usual.

“If you wish, you are advised to make an appointment on that day,” the organisation said.

Donors can find out which blood collection sites are closest to them on the dedicated Red Cross website (in English).

Written by Helen Lyons