'Critically low' on blood, NY Blood Center issues urgent call for blood donations

The New York Blood Center is experiencing a critical shortage of blood, particularly of O+ and O- types, and is urgently appealing to the community to donate blood to ensure patients receive the lifesaving care they need.

NEW YORK (PIX11)—The New York Blood Center has reported a critical shortage of blood, which is affecting hospitals in New York. 

They urgently need blood donations, particularly O+ and O- blood types, as supplies have reached an all-time low since the COVID-19 pandemic.

"We are appealing to our community to step up and donate blood, especially those who are type O. The summer months are always a challenging time for the blood supply, but we are currently experiencing an even lower level of this crucial blood type than at the start of the pandemic,” said Andrea Cefarelli, Senior Vice President at New York Blood Center. "Following the recent surge in blood usage, our local inventory is critically low, and we need immediate support to ensure every patient receives the lifesaving care they need.” 

To meet the requirements for donating blood, individuals must: 

• Be in good health 
• Be 17 years or older 
• Weigh at least 110 pounds 
• Not have taken antibiotics (except for acne) for infection unless they have completed the course and meet all other criteria 
• Be symptom-free for at least 72 hours following a cold or flu

Certain medical conditions, medications, recent tattoos, piercings, or travel may impact eligibility.

 More information can be found here.