Type O Blood Donors Needed

FARMINGTON — The American Red Cross is calling upon all eligible donors within blood group O (O-positive and O-negative) to volunteer to give blood as soon as possible.

Inventories of blood type O-positive and O-negative are critically low in Connecticut, with supplies at or below one-day level for both.

As the universal donor, it is imperative that blood type O-negative is on the shelves of every trauma hospital in Connecticut. This is especially important for accident victims suffering from serious blood loss. Blood type O-negative can relatively safely be transfused into anyone on a moment’s notice, even without knowing the blood type of the accident victim, thus saving or prolonging their life.

As for O-positive, the need for this blood type really comes down to the basic economic principles of supply and demand. More of the population (approximately 37.5 percent) has blood type O-positive. Therefore, the need for O-positive is higher than for any blood type.

Volunteer blood donors of any blood type are welcome at any American Red Cross blood drive in Connecticut. Right now, however, the need is especially strong for blood group O. Donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds, and be in generally good health. Call 800/Give Life (800/448-3543) to make an appointment.

On Friday, January 19, there will be a blood drive from 1:30 to 5:45 pm at the Holiday Inn in Danbury. Many other drives also are scheduled this month.