Blood donors are needed to fill a critical shortage, the San Diego Blood Bank (SDBB) warned Monday.
“Supplies are low and the advent of Zika has worsened the challenge,” said San Diego Blood Bank CEO, David Wellis in a written statement. “There is no substitute for blood donations are critically needed."
There is currently a nationwide need for blood and platelet donors. All blood types are needed.
To be eligible to donate blood you must be at least 17 years old (15 and 16 year olds may donate with parental consent), weigh at least 114 pounds and be in general good health.
Anyone who has traveled outside of the United States has to wait 28 days after returning to donate blood.
Eligible blood donors are encouraged to schedule an appointment to give by visiting www.SanDiegoBloodBank.org or calling 1-800-4-MY-SDBB (1-800-469-7322).
The San Diego Blood Bank serves hospitals in San Diego, Orange, Imperial and Los Angeles counties.
