Nonprofit blood services provider, Vitalant, announced they faced a 30% blood donation shortfall during the fourth of July holiday week, and are experiencing a low donor turnout this summer.
Vitalant provides for about 900 hospitals nationwide, including over 25 hospitals along the central coast. Vitalant urges donors, especially those with Type O blood, to make an appointment in the coming days and weeks.
A release by Vitalant says they have dropped to an 18-month low for Type O blood, and cites that the extreme heat is likely contributing to the low donor turnout.
Vitalant says thousands of donation appointments are available at air-conditioned Vitalant donation centers and community blood drives in the coming days and weeks.
Appointments can be made online, through the Vitalant App, or by calling 877-258-4825.
