MEDIA RELEASE: 17 August 2010 

Urgent call for O+ Blood Donors

The Australian Red Cross Blood Service is urgently calling for O Positive blood donors to make an appointment.

Victoria has less than 3 days supply of O+ blood in stock, and while supplies have been dropping, patients need for blood has not changed. Every day, people with life–threatening conditions need blood to stay alive.

“The Blood Service needs 511 donations each day from O+ donors in Victoria, to meet the needs of patients”  Blood Service Manager, Cathy Hockings said.

“In July, on average we were short 45 donations each and every day; meaning by the end of July, our stocks were down by 1,395 donations of O+ blood.  This fall off in July adds to the pressure on blood stocks, which have been on the decline since May” Ms Hockings said.

“At the beginning of August, stocks of O+ blood were well below the level we set as our desired minimum level, and they show no signs of picking up” she added. 

40% of all Australians are blood type O Positive, so it is in the greatest demand.

The drop in donations has been mirrored in New South Wales, meaning the two biggest states are well below target; which is a cause of real concern within the Blood Service.

We would welcome any opportunity to promote the need for O+ donors to make an appointment on 13 14 95 or via www.donateblood.com.au

For images or further information please contact: 

Kathy Bowlen
National Media Manager
03 9863 2861 / 0447 448 338