Winter weather brings about blood shortage

Due to the influx of snow storms and increased weather related-accidents, Ann Arbor's blood banks are struggling to survive with limited blood levels.

The American Red Cross has called a National Appeal for Blood. Kelly Dix, the volunteer coordinator for blood services at the Washtenaw chapter of the American Red Cross, said yesterday she is pleased with the support they have received, but stressed that shortages remain.

"We have had a great response from the public, but we still need continued help," Dix said.

Dix attributed the depleted levels to the holidays and the blizzard that swept through the area last week.

LOUIS BROWN/Daily Dennis Hacker gets his blood taken by Tricia Frazzini at the American Red Cross of Washtenaw County yesterday.

"The weather and holidays are leaving us short," Dix said. "It has been difficult for mobile donation centers to operate. With lots of areas looking to us for help, transports are finding it difficult to get to different areas."

Robertson Davenport, associate director of University Hospitals Blood Bank and Transfusion Services, said that although there is a necessity for red blood cells and platelets, he is not very concerned with the situation.

"We would like to have 200 units of red blood cells and 150 units of platelets on the shelf each day. Right now we have only 60 units of platelets," Davenport said.

"The situation is not critical right now, but it could be in the future," he said. "The Red Cross has been very helpful recently. Today, we are generally in good shape."

Both Davenport and Dix said there is a large demand for type O blood.

"Type O blood is very important because most of the population is that type. Even those who are not are usually able to accept it," Davenport said.

LSA sophomore Nicole McCarthy, who gave blood in November, said the University should make an effort to increase blood donations.

"I think making an effort to donate, is tough right now," McCarthy said. "If the school were to set up a blood drive then more people would be apt to donate."

LSA junior Aditi Vijah, a member of Alpha Phi Omega - a co-ed community service fraternity said the group's semi-annual blood drive has been scheduled for early February.

"Typically there is a blood shortage at this time of year," Vijah said. "We are planning another blood drive to run from Feb. 1-5."

Students interested in donating blood can contact the American Red Cross and set up an appointment by calling (734)-971-1500.

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