BOISE, Idaho — March is Red Cross Month in the United States and the group is urging healthy people to donate blood as the coronavirus spreads. Right now, the Red Cross is experiencing an urgent need for blood, which is normal due to the cold and flu season.
However, the need could grow as restrictions on who can and can't donate blood change.
"We are a vital component to the community and blood donation is something that is...the need is constant," said Eric Horton, Regional donor service executive. "So whether its coronavirus or its several weeks from now blood does have an expiration date and we do have to have a continual supply."
The group is calling special attention to O negative blood. The universal blood type can be given to anyone and is key for emergency responders who do not have time to figure out someone's blood type.
If you do not have O negative blood, do not let that hold you back from donating. The American Red Cross benefits from all types.
There are several places to donate coming in the coming days.
Boise
- 3/12/2020: 9 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Boise City Hall, 150 N Capitol Blvd, Corner of 6th and Main Street
- 3/13/2020: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Idaho Housing & Finance Association, 565 W Myrtle
- 3/21/2020: 12 p.m. - 5 p.m., Cabela's, 8109 W Franklin Road
- Red Cross Blood Donation Center 5380 Franklin Road Boise, Idaho 83705
Eagle
- 3/13/2020: 11 a.m. - 6 p.m., LDS Star Stake, 1133 North Park Lane
Meridian
- 3/12/2020: 12:30 p.m. - 6 p.m., LDS Church, 2555 S Stoddard Road
