NEW JERSEY — New Jersey health officials are urging residents to donate blood and platelets immediately as severe winter weather and a difficult flu season have led to a critical statewide shortage.
The New Jersey Department of Health said the state has less than one week’s supply of red blood cells and less than one day’s supply of platelets, creating concern for hospitals across New Jersey.
“Blood and platelet donors save lives – and now, we need every eligible New Jerseyan to step up and join their ranks,” said Acting Health Commissioner Dr. Raynard E. Washington. “Our health system relies on selfless donors for essential blood products used every single day in emergency surgeries, childbirth, cancer treatment, and countless other medical procedures. That means you can save a life today just by rolling up your sleeve.”
Officials said supplies of Type O, A-negative and B-negative red blood cells are down to just a few days. Requests from hospitals are currently exceeding available supplies, drawing down blood reserves by approximately 35% over the past month, according to the department.
At least three New Jersey blood banks are reporting severe shortages of blood and platelets. Nationally, the American Red Cross said more than 15,000 blood donations went uncollected due to recent severe winter weather.
Health officials warned that without immediate donations, patients could face serious risks, including delays in emergency surgeries, cancer treatments and other critical medical care.
Eligible residents can schedule blood donations through organizations including the American Red Cross, Hunterdon Healthcare, Miller-Keystone Blood Center, New York Blood Center, RWJBarnabas Health and Vitalant Blood Services.
In New Jersey, individuals who are at least 17 years old, or 16 with parental consent, weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood.
