The Nebraska Blood Bank declares a blood emergency

LINCOLN, Neb. (Nebraska) – The Nebraska Community Blood Bank declared a blood emergency Monday morning.

The emergency announcement comes after several recent and long standing factors such as the ice storm that hit last week, cold and flu season, fewer first time donors and a growing number of people who have not returned to donate since. COVID. -19 pandemic began.

In addition, businesses, schools and communities were not holding blood donations as fast as they were before the pandemic, the NCBB said.

“Every winter we struggle to keep our blood donation going, and this year was no exception,” said Wendy Kapetz, senior executive director of corporate marketing. “But right now the need is very urgent and may start to affect our local hospitals. We need more Nebraskas to donate blood, run blood campaigns, and spread the word about donating.”

While whole blood donors are essential, the NCBB relies heavily on specialized platelet donors as blood has a shelf life of only seven days. Platelet donors help patients undergoing chemotherapy, bleeding disorders, new mothers and more.

“The need for blood never stops,” Kapets said. “Donating blood changes the lives of local people and those who love them. We invite potential new donors to experience this rewarding act of kindness. Bring your friends, family and colleagues and share your generosity with your networks.”

The NCBB said that blood donors can donate every 56 days and platelet donors can donate twice a month. The Food and Drug Administration has also recently lifted restrictions on individuals who have resided in Europe for certain periods of time. The public can review the current participation rules here or call 877-486-9414.

Anyone interested in donating can make an appointment at:

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