JEFFERSON COUNTY, Ohio — In the midst of this war in the Middle East, injuries continue to rise, which is creating a blood shortage.
Blood services in Israel are struggling to keep up as hospitals and clinics are just seeing an uptick in patients.
The country is so in need, the lobby of Israel’s largest hospital has even become a blood donation center.
Now, bigger cities across the U.S., from Cincinnati to Miami are lending a helping hand to aid those struggling to find this healthy supply of blood.
So, could we see blood drives for Israel pop up locally?
“We are, of course, a part of the international association of Red Cross and it’s a very fluid operation right now,” Sharon Kesselring, with the area Red Cross chapter, said. “We are waiting for some guidance to come out within the next couple of days.”
Kesselring said blood shortages are now very common in the U.S., so it may impact any aid.
“American Red Cross is very focused on the current need for blood in our own country,” Kesselring said. “We have been in critical appeal since the first of September because of the drastic drop off of donations in august.”
Jefferson County Health Commissioner Andrew Henry said, in light of these blood shortages, it brings concern.
“When you look at that from an emergency response standpoint, that is very concerning because a key aspect of emergency planning and response is ensuring blood supply for those in need,” Henry said.
Henry said seeing an outpouring of donations from nations across the globe is something he hasn’t seen for some time. But he said blood drives for this cause could make their way to the tri-state area.
“I don’t know about here in Jefferson County,” Henry said. “Maybe more like Pittsburgh. Your big metropolitan areas are likely to host something like that.”