IBTS issue urgent call for Limerick blood donors as stocks fall to 'concerning levels'

AS a result of a major shortfall in blood donations, the public is being encouraged to attend one of two upcoming blood clinics across Limerick.

National blood supplies, especially for vital blood groups like O negative and B negative, have fallen to concerning levels. The Irish Blood Transfusion Service (IBTS) aims to maintain a seven-day supply at all times to ensure our hospitals can meet patient needs.

All blood types are needed and the IBTS ask that any O negative or B negative donors please make an appointment if they get a text from us. Stocks of some blood types are critically low, O negative (the universal blood type) and B negative are particularly low.

The blood clinics will take place at Coláiste Iósaef in Kilmallock from Monday, July 7 to Wednesday, July 9 from 4.50pm to 8.10pm and in Greenhills Hotel in Caherdavin on Thursday, July 10 from 4.20pm to 7.40pm.

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The IBTS need to collect an additional 2,000 donations nationwide over the coming weeks to prevent any impact on vital medical procedures. Hospital demand for blood has been consistently high, particularly following the recent June and May Bank holidays, and the continued good weather has also unfortunately impacted clinic attendance.

Blood is a lifeline for thousands of patients every year – from those undergoing complex surgeries, individuals battling cancer and leukaemia requiring chemotherapy, to mothers experiencing complications during childbirth, and victims of serious accidents. One unit of blood can save or significantly improve the lives of up to three people.

The IBTS has already issued a stock management alert to hospitals, asking them to reduce their blood holding. If current trends continue, the next step would be an 'amber alert letter', which could have immediate implications for elective surgical procedures requiring blood support.

Donating blood is a simple, safe, and profoundly selfless act. The actual donation process typically takes only 10-15 minutes, preceded by a health questionnaire and a quick check.

To make an appointment, please call 1800 222 111. New donors welcome.