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Press Release

The Western Cape's blood supply has improved, but the current blood shortage still persists with the Western Province Blood Transfusion Service (WPBTS) reporting a four-day stock of the O blood group on the eve of the Reconciliation day long weekend.

With three long weekends running concurrently (Reconciliation Day, Christmas and New Year), the organisation has reiterated its call to volunteers to donate blood in an effort to stabilise the province's supply.

WPBTS earlier reported a 30% increase in the demand for blood at its major blood banks over the past months leading to difficulty maintaining sufficient O and B blood group stocks. Among the hospitals affected are Groote Schuur, Red Cross Children's hospital and Tygerberg.

"Donor's response to the call for donations has been incredible, but we are experiencing the worst shortage in a decade and need continued support as the next month is critical," said Ms Lynn Erasmus, spokesperson for the WPBTS.

In addition to its regular clinic schedule the organisation is hosting a number of donation drives to help counter the effects of the shortage:

Tyger Valley Shopping Centre
Saturday, 15/12/07 Tyger Valley Shopping Centre, Shop 126, Entrance 6, 10.00 — 15.00pm
N1 City Mall
Sunday, 23/12/07 N1 City Mall, Court B under escalators close to Foschini, 10.00am — 14.45pm

Prospective donors must be older than 17 years, weigh more than 50kg and lead a safe, healthy lifestyle. Donors are reminded to eat before attending clinics.

For more information, contact the Western Province Blood Transfusion Services on tel (021) 507 6300, e-mail info@wpbts.org.za or visit www.wpblood.org.za