The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) is currently experiencing a shortage of blood group O supplies and is calling on ordinary ‘HEROES’ to heed their call.
Blood group O – is referred to as the universal blood type, as it can be transfused to all patients in an emergency, regardless of their blood type, thus saving valuable time.
This month, SANBS calls on healthy and eligible donors to donate safe blood.
Donor relations practitioner Terrance Pillay, explains that an ample supply of group O blood is not only vital in treating patients during medical emergencies but is used to save the lives of newborn babies.
“Babies born with blood disorders may require an immediate blood transfusion to save their lives,” he said.
“Difficulties may occur in determining the blood group of infants and therefore access to O-blood can play a crucial role in saving their lives.”
He said that due to their delicate immune systems, babies also need ‘fresher’ blood than other patients.
While red blood cells stored up to 42 days can be transfused to most adult patients, only blood less than five days old may be given to newborn patients.
If you weigh over 50kg, are between 16 and 75 years old and lead a healthy lifestyle, you can donate blood.
Donors are further called support the SANBS “Red Saturday” – campaign on 30th of November 30 at:
Harvest Shopping Centre
Parking Area
9h00 to 16h00
Brentwood Park Checkers
Main Entrance
9h00 to 16h00
Tsakane Mall
Parking Area
9h00 to 16h00
Lakeside Mall
Shop next to Vodacom
9h00 to 16h00
For more information call the SANBS on 0800 11 90 31
Or visit your nearest Donor Centre.
Springs Donor Centre
Upper Level Next to the Gym
Mon to Fri – 10h00 to 18h00
Sat/ Sun: 9h00 to 15h00
Carnival Donor Centre
Near Game
Mon to Fri – 10h00 to 18h00
Sat/ Sun: 9h00 to 15h00
Benoni Donor Centre
42-14th Avenue, Northmead
Mon to Fri – 10h00 to 18h00
Sat: 8h00 to 14h00
