SMSBlood centers across the U.S. have less than a day's supply of some types, the organization says, as COVID fuels decline in blood drives.
As COVID-19 hospitalization rates surge, the U.S. blood supply has become dangerously low.
This is prompting The Red Cross to declare a "national blood crisis" for the first time ever.
Some blood centers are reporting less than a day's supply of certain types, which is forcing hospitals to postpone major surgeries.
Last year, the Red Cross saw a 34% decline in new donors.
The organization has urged donors of all blood types – particularly type O – to make appointments now to donate in the coming weeks. It said that people who have received a U.S.-authorized COVID-19 vaccine can donate blood and platelets, as long as they have no symptoms and feel well.
To find out where you can donate, visit redcrossblood.org/give
