Urgent Need For Blood Donations In Ohio, EMS Board Says

OHIO — The holiday season is not merely a time for good cheer, but an opportunity to save a stranger's life.

This week, an urgent call for blood donations was issued by the State Board of Emergency Medical, Fire, and Transportation Services. During a recent meeting, the board learned the current blood shortage — typical of the holiday season — has been exacerbated by the struggles of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Donating blood is often the last thing on people’s minds this time of year, but without a rise in donations some patients may not be able to receive life-saving infusions of blood and blood products. Please consider donating blood as one of your holiday gifts," said Ohio Division of EMS Executive Director Rob Wagoner.

Like many other industries, hospitals and blood collection facilities are also experiencing staffing challenges due to the pandemic. That has added another layer of difficulty to the current blood shortage, the board said.

The board urged Ohioans to contact their local blood donation clinics and sign-up for a donation time.