Urgent appeal for blood donors across Cork

The Irish Blood Transfusion Service (IBTS) has urgently called on members of the public across Cork to attend its donation clinic as blood supply stocks are at a critical level.

According to the IBTS, due to increased demand, the service is facing shortages in several key blood groups including O positive, which is “at its lowest level this year”.

Barry Doyle, IBTS director of production and hospital services, said the organisation has “just over two days' supply of O positive and just over three days’ for other key blood groups”.

“We have contacted hospitals to advise that stock levels are very low, and we will be actively managing stock to ensure blood is available for those who need it most,” said Mr Doyle.

“Hospital demand for blood has been high, particularly during March.

“This has coincided with bank holidays around St Patrick's day and Easter, with some donors taking advantage of the holidays and good weather, meaning they have been unavailable for clinics.

“The IBTS aims to have seven days’ supply at all times, however, current supply levels for most groups are significantly below this,” he added.

“We have added five extra clinics across the country for this Sunday, as we are also seeing lower booking rates than normal for our permanent centres.

“Ideally, we need to increase our collections by an additional 500 donations per week across all blood groups before the May bank holiday, to be able to meet the consistently high demand.” Mr Doyle said a stock management letter has been issued to all hospitals advising them of the situation, which will enable the IBTS to effectively manage the limited blood supply.

“We are working closely with the hospital teams to prevent the need to cancel elective surgery or restrict treatment of patients,” said Mr Doyle.

”We are asking regular donors to make an extra effort to attend their nearest clinic, especially in Cork where we have clinic availability every week.” Donors are encouraged to make an appointment online or by calling 1800 731 137.

For more information, or to check your eligibility as a donor, visit: https://www.giveblood.ie/become-a-donor/.