Blood shortage remains a problem during Tet Holiday
30 localiaties have delayed or cancelled blood donation events which are expected to collect over 8,000 units of blood. From January 29 to February 1, the institute only received 1,300 units while the daily demand is 1,200-1,500 units. It is estimated that from February 1 to 7, they can only receive 3,000 units.
Bach Quoc Khanh, head of the National Institute Of Haematology and Blood Transfusion, said high demands around Tet Holiday had been one of their biggest problems. Platelets are only stored up to 5 days before transfusion.
"A long holiday and new virus outbreaks in different locations make everyone more worried. We lack around 13,000 units," he said.
The institute called for people who are healthy to donate blood and platelets in February, especially those with O and A blood types. They also hope that organisations and state agencies will have plans to hold donation events to call for more donations.
The institute will give blood donors free examination packages and gifts from February 3 to 23 as a thank you.
The National Institute Of Haematology and Blood Transfusion asserted that they would strictly follow all Covid-19 preventive measures and procedures at the blood donation locations to ensure safety for the staff, the donors, patients and other employees.
