The American Red Cross is asking for blood donations after severe weather across the county leads to cancellations.
Severe winter weather canceled more than 10,000 blood and platelet donations across the country in February. The Red Cross is in need of more donors to "ensure blood products are available for patient emergencies when help can’t wait."
Donations of blood, platelet and plasma will also be tested for COVID-19 antibodies, according to the Red Cross. Any donation with COVID-19 antibodies could be used for patients sick with coronavirus and in need of convalescent plasma transfusion, according to the Red Cross.
Donors who do not feel well or believe they may have COVID-19 are asked to postpone their donation. Anyone donating will also be asked to schedule an appointment and required to wear a face mask during the donation, the Red Cross says.
To make an appointment, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-733-2767.
