The Blood Bank of Delaware Declares a Blood Emergency

Following a summer of low donor turnout and an increased need for blood, the Blood Bank of Delmarva (BBD) has declared a "blood emergency."

Blood shortages are pervasive throughout the U.S., with many centers in immediate need. The Delmarva region is currently well below the optimal five to seven-day supply. While all blood types are needed, type O negative, O positive, and platelets are critically low.

Fewer youth donors (down 50% since 2019), fewer organizations hosting blood drives, and remote work are some of the factors conspiring to crimp the nation's blood supply. BBD Vice-President Emily Cunningham said that blood drives held at employers, places of worship, and colleges have drastically decreased since the pandemic.

The BBD is especially urging the participation of African Americans and Hispanics. African Americans are more than 20% of the region's population but account for just 5% of blood donors. One in three African American donors is a match for sickle cell patients who can require hundreds of transfusions each year. Hispanics comprise 10% of the local population but just 2% of blood donors. An estimated 60% have type O blood – the type most in demand at hospitals.

Residents are asked to schedule an appointment by calling 1-888-8-BLOOD-8 or visiting www.delmarvablood.org.