BOISE — With the cold and flu season here, the American Red Cross usually sees a drop in blood donors, but they are trying to prevent shortages as coronavirus concerns continues to grow.
“We are a vital component to the community and blood donation is something that the need for it is constant. 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." Eric Horton, Regional Donor Service Executive said.
The group is urging people who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 or have come in contact with someone who has been diagnosed, to delay blood donation for 28 days. People who have traveled to China, Italy, South Korea, Iran and Macau should also postpone their blood donation.
Donations from healthy individuals who have O-negative blood type are also strongly urged. The universal blood type can be given to anyone and one donation can help save up to three lives.
To learn where and when you can donate visit the American Red Cross.
