The American Red Cross has declared a severe national blood shortage after the U.S. blood supply dropped about 35% over the past month, raising concerns for hospitals already strained by a widespread flu outbreak.
High flu activity across nearly every state appears to be sidelining donors just as hospitals are seeing increased demand. With inventories falling, some facilities are being forced to triage critical blood products, putting patients at risk.
Winter weather is compounding the problem. In December alone, about 400 blood drives were disrupted by severe weather, more than triple the number affected during the same period last year. Thousands of potential donations were never collected.
The shortage is especially critical for O, A negative, and B negative blood types. Without immediate donor action, patients who rely on transfusions — including trauma victims, mothers experiencing childbirth complications, and people undergoing cancer treatment or living with sickle cell disease — could face dangerous delays.
“This time of year is always challenging, but the combination of extended holidays, record flu activity, and winter storms has created a perfect storm for blood collection,” said Dr. Courtney Lawrence, executive medical director for the Red Cross. “Every donation helps save lives and eases the burden on hospitals and care teams.”
How to help
The Red Cross is urging eligible donors to schedule an appointment now by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, using the Blood Donor App, or calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
To thank donors during this critical period:
- Donors through Jan. 25 can enter for a chance to win a trip for two to Super Bowl LX.
- Donors from Jan. 26 through Feb. 28 will receive a $20 e-gift card.
All blood types are needed.
