The Nebraska Community Blood Bank is once again facing a critical blood shortage, with supplies of every blood type now below a two-day supply. Donor Recruitment Manager Kari Lundeen tells KLIN News they first declared a blood emergency around Memorial Day and had to issue another one immediately after the Fourth of July, something she says has never happened before during the summer months.
Lundeen says donations have declined as people travel and take vacations, while demand has increased because summer is also peak trauma season, with more vehicle crashes, outdoor recreation injuries and medical emergencies requiring blood transfusions.
The most urgent need is for O-negative blood, the universal donor type, which is now at less than a one-day supply. Lundeen says a single blood donation can save up to three lives. Those interested in donating can schedule an appointment at ncbb.org, call 402-486-9414, or visit one of the Nebraska Community Blood Bank’s donor centers or mobile blood drives.