Group 'O' blood type donors urged to donate blood

The SA National Blood Service (SANBS) today appealed to all Group "O" blood type donors to urgently come forward to donate blood.

The urgent appeal was prompted by a serious blood shortage countrywide. "Traditionally, during the festive season, we experience a very serious problem in terms of blood collection since activities have slowed down," said SANBS spokesman Justice Mohale.

A special appeal was made for Group "O" blood. The SANBS said its present stock of Group "O" blood was estimated to last only one and a half days. "We need Group 'O' that can last us for five days," Mohale said.

Group "O" blood is known as the universal donor as it can be transfused to all blood groups (A, B, AB and O). - Sapa