Red Cross blood supplies low

The American Red Cross is facing a national blood crisis – its worst blood shortage in more than a decade, according to their recent press release.

“Dangerously low blood supply levels are posing a concerning risk to patient care and forcing doctors to make difficult decisions about who receives blood transfusions and who will need to wait until more products become available,” the release stated.

Blood and platelet donations are critically needed to help prevent further delays in vital medical treatments, and donors of all blood types – especially type O − are urged to make an appointment now to give in the weeks ahead.

In recent weeks, the Red Cross had less than a one-day supply of critical blood types and has had to limit blood product distributions to hospitals. At times, as much as one-quarter of hospital blood needs are not being met, the release stated.

The Red Cross continues to confront relentless challenges due to COVID-19, including about a 10 percent overall decline in the number of people donating blood as well as ongoing blood drive cancellations and staffing limitations. In addition, the pandemic has contributed to a 62 percent drop in blood drives at schools and colleges.

“Please, if you are eligible, make an appointment to give blood or platelets in the days and weeks ahead to ensure no patient is forced to wait for critical care,” said Dr. Baia Lasky, medical director for the Red Cross.

Over the next month, about 80 percent of donation appointments remain unfilled in Oklahoma. Make an appointment to give blood or platelets as soon as possible by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

jdm

After tabling the vote for the awarding of a solid waste collection company a couple of times, Purcell’s Public Works Authority made a decision earlier this month.

The board voted to go with GFL, the same company they’ve been working with for the past few years.

Mayor Ted Cox said as it turned out the other company that bid on the project didn’t meet all the bid criteria.

The contract will run through 2027.