Blood drives being cancelled at alarming rate, but donations still needed

The American Red Cross is facing a severe blood shortage as blood drives are cancelled because of the coronavirus pandemic.

As of mid-March, 2,700 blood drives had been called off nationwide, resulting in 86,000 fewer donations.

While some potential donors might be leery to donate blood during the pandemic, the Red Cross is assuring it’s a safe process.

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Extra precautions are being taken, including checking the temperatures of staff and donors before they enter a donation center, providing hand sanitizer, spacing beds to distance donors and increasing disinfecting practices.

According to the Red Cross, there is no research or evidence that suggests the coronavirus can be spread through a blood transfusion.

CLICK HERE for more information on how to donate.

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