The U.S. is experiencing a dramatic shortage of blood donations as the COVID-19 pandemic enters its ninth month. According to America’s Blood Centers, a national organization for independent blood centers, 21 of its 59 centers have only a one-to-two-day supply of blood, and 10 community centers have a one-day supply or less.
Hospitals count on blood transfusions for many purposes. Platelet products support cancer patients. Red cells are used in surgery and trauma.There is a huge demand for convalescent plasma, the blood from people who have recovered from COVID-19 and have antibodies. “We need all blood products and we need donors to come out,” said Paul Sullivan, senior vice president at the American Red Cross.