With two blood donation clinics in Waterford this week, the IBTS is appealing to people to attend as stocks are critically low this week.
The IBTS is asking for immediate public and donor support to help recover the National blood supply, with supply in some groups frequently falling to just three days in recent weeks.
The IBTS normally tries to have seven days stock at all times.
“Hospitals have been experiencing extreme pressures recently and there has been a sustained high demand for blood. The recent high level of respiratory illness in the community has also impacted the collection of blood and as a result we are running critically low across all blood groups. In order to avoid putting further pressure on our hospital system, we need as many donors as possible to attend donation clinics over the coming days,’’ said Paul McKinney, Director of Donor Services and Logistics.
”If you receive a text message from us, please respond to the number provided and make an appointment, RhD negative donors can attend any clinic and they will be accommodated.
“Support from our donors has as usual been superb over the last few challenging months and we are very grateful for that. We constantly need new donors and anybody interested in becoming a new donor should register their interest on our website (www.giveblood.ie) where you will also find all clinic locations / opening hours and all frequently asked questions. In advance of the new Public Holiday we are also running additional clinics on Sunday 29th of January,” he added.
In Waterford, two clinics will take place this week, today and tomorrow (Tuesday) from 3.45pm to 8pm at the Racecourse in Tramore.
The IBTS continues to adhere to public health guidelines to ensure the safety of its donors.
Additional clinics on Sunday 29th January are as follows:
Kilkenny – O’Loughlin Gaels GAA Club
Ennis – West County Hotel
Clondalkin – Green Isle Hotel
For all your latest Waterford news and sport, click here.
