LAS VEGAS (KSNV) — The American Red Cross of Southern Nevada is urging community members to take two crucial steps this season—get vaccinated against the flu and donate blood.
Officials said getting the flu shot and COVID-19 booster could be more important than ever as a severe flu season and possible overlapping COVID-19 resurgence might add to the current challenges that have led to a blood shortage.
“We know many folks are getting their flu shots this year and are wondering if they can still donate blood after being vaccinated, whether it’s the flu shot, COVID-19 booster, or the new RSV vaccine,” said Dr. Walter Kelley, Medical Director for the Rocky Mountain Division of the American Red Cross. “Let’s clear this up. Yes, you absolutely can. There’s no need to wait after getting vaccinated to donate blood.”
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This year has seen thousands of potential blood donations uncollected as severe weather events forced the closure of blood donation centers and the cancellation of blood drives across the country.
According to officials, the last time the Red Cross declared a national blood emergency was in January 2022, which was the worst blood shortage in over a decade. Hospital demand for blood currently exceeds the rate of incoming donations, causing a 25% decrease in the Red Cross national blood supply.
While all blood types are needed, there is a critical need for type O donors. Type O positive is the most frequently transfused blood type, while O negative serves as the universal donor and is often used in emergencies when the patient’s blood type cannot be quickly determined.
Donors can schedule an appointment using the Red Cross Blood Donor App by visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).