NYBC Declares 'Blood Emergency' As Supplies Reach Critical Levels

NEW YORK — New York Blood Center (NYBC) has declared a blood emergency due to a drastic drop in blood donations after a holiday season of "alarmingly low" donor turnout.

The organization noted a nearly 30 percent drop in donations over the past few weeks which has resulted in 6,500 fewer donations and "crippled" the area's blood supply.

All blood types are urgently needed, especially Types O- and B-, which NYBC says are down to a dangerously low one-to-three-day supply.

NYBC says that blood donations normally decrease during the holidays, but January poses additional challenges: bad weather causing blood drive cancellations; flu, COVID, and RSV reducing donor eligibility; and schools and workplaces hosting fewer drives during the holidays.

These factors have strained an already fragile blood supply, which is needed for surgeries, trauma care, cancer treatments, and managing chronic illnesses. Hospitals and patients rely on a steady stream of volunteer donors. However, the past few years have seen persistent, nationwide blood shortages.

"The months following the holiday season are always a difficult time for the blood supply, with an increase in seasonal illness and inclement winter weather impacting donations," said Andrea Cefarelli, Senior Vice President at New York Blood Center. "The drop in donations serves as a critical reminder of the fragility of our nation’s blood supply. We’re urging all eligible New Yorkers to start the new year by saving lives – schedule a donation today and bring a friend to double the impact!"

January is National Blood Donor Month, which aims to raise awareness about the importance of blood donation and recognize the lifesaving impact of voluntary blood donors. Proclaimed by President Richard Nixon in January 1970, the annual observance is important for raising awareness and strengthening the blood supply during a critical time of year.

Blood donors can give every 56 days, and platelet donors can give twice a month. The FDA recently lifted several blood donor eligibility restrictions. To view current eligibility guidelines, click here or call 1-800-688-0900. To make an appointment, donors can call 1-800-933-2566 or visit the NYBC website. If you can't donate blood, you can still support NYBC's mission through financial contributions or volunteering your time. Find out more here.