COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) –The American Red Cross declared a severe blood shortage in Michigan this week as the state’s blood inventory plummeted by approximately 35% over the last month.
Officials attribute the critical shortfall to a “perfect storm” of extreme winter weather that forced the cancellation of hundreds of blood drives, alongside the highest levels of respiratory illness and flu activity seen in 25 years.
The shortage is particularly acute for blood types O, A-negative, and B-negative, posing a risk to patients requiring emergency surgeries, trauma care, and life-saving transfusions during childbirth.
To help combat the crisis, Coldwater is hosting a community blood drive next Tuesday January 27 from 10:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m. at Heritage Hall.
Local health officials and the Red Cross are urging residents to make appointments to ensure a steady supply for nearby facilities.
Donors can schedule their visit through the American Red Cross website or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor app.
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