The Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) has issued an urgent appeal for residents to donate blood as critical O-type stocks remain below target.
Since the start of winter, supplies of O positive and O negative blood have consistently remained below the minimum five-day level needed to support hospitals across the province.
Winter Puts Blood Supplies Under Pressure
Winter is traditionally one of the toughest times for blood collection in the Western Cape.
Seasonal illnesses, cold and wet weather and lower donor attendance can all reduce the number of donations received.
However, the demand for blood does not slow down during winter.
Hospitals need a stable supply to treat trauma and cancer patients, people undergoing surgery and mothers experiencing complications during childbirth. Many other patients also depend on lifesaving blood transfusions.
WCBS Public Relations Manager Marike Carli said the organisation aims to maintain at least five days’ worth of stock across every blood group.
This helps ensure hospitals can access blood when patients need it most.
Less Than 1% Actively Donate
Only 0.95% of the Western Cape population are currently active blood donors.
WCBS wants between 1% and 1.2% of residents to donate regularly to help create a sustainable supply.
While the organisation recruits new donors every year, expanding its active donor base remains essential.
A small increase in the number of regular donors could make an important difference to blood availability across the province.
New Campaign Targets First-Time Donors
WCBS has launched its winter campaign under the theme, “Be bold. Donate blood.”
The campaign encourages people to donate despite concerns about needles or uncertainty about the process.
It places a particular focus on younger adults and first-time donors, urging them to take the first step and continue donating in future.
WCBS said being bold does not mean having no fear. It means choosing to help others despite that fear.
Residents who are eligible to donate are encouraged to visit a WCBS donation centre or blood drive as soon as possible.
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