Drop In Blood Donations

Health and financial concerns go hand in hand once again, this time when observing a significant drop in blood donations. Only 5% of eligible Americans donate blood and that number has dropped considerably this year with the convergence of an economic recession and the swine flu pandemic. The scent of latex gloves wafting across the high school gym or the sight of the Blood Mobile in the company parking lot is far less frequent than usual.

Corporate sponsored blood drives have seen a remarkable drop in donors this year; some hard hit areas like Michigan have seen a decrease by as much as 20 percent. The blood mobile pulled up in front of the office or plant is attracting fewer donors as lay-offs take their toll and the remaining skeleton crew is working extra hard and feeling unable to take the time away from their jobs. The workplace has served for many years as an excellent collection point for the American Red Cross and other blood supply agencies. An organized blood drive has traditionally offered a sort of respite at work with soft rock and cookies in the lobby or van while simultaneously building charitable and community spirit.

Charitable givings from corporations have taken a sharp decline this past year, as well. The drop in blood drives can be seen as part of this economic reflex. Prescheduled annual drives are being cancelled and a number of blood banks are doubling their collection of red blood cells from individual donors to help offset this occurrence. There is also an increased effort to locate rare negative type O blood which is usable by any recipient.

To add insult to injury, the H1N1 virus or swine flu has hit the population earlier this season than originally expected. This jeopardizes donor clinics that are held at schools which can be affected by high absenteeism or temporary closure. Schools have long been a major link in the blood supply chain and this development is being watch with some unease by blood collection agency officials.

Furthermore, blood donors are asked to contact blood centers if they become ill during the next couple of days after giving blood. Their blood must then be removed from the supply in accordance with government regulations. Although cold and flu viruses are not typically transmitted through blood transfusions like other diseases, some studies have recently shown that certain strains, such as H1N1, can possibly be present in the blood before the patient shows symptoms. Some blood samples of these donors who report illness within forty-eight hours of giving are now being tested for the H1N1 virus.

Considering the significant drop in donors this year, you may wish to encourage your workplace to host a blood drive in the near future. Knowing that one donation can save up to 3 lives will inspire your colleagues to get behind a very worthy cause. Everyone benefits from the opportunity to build their community and exercise charity. The American Red Cross makes the project simple for hosts, knowing that both charity and efficiency is their key to success. You can get started now by visiting them at givelife2.org.

Jen Long has been in the glove industry for 30 years and is PR Director for an online store specializing in Disposable Gloves and Healthcare Products where she is writing resources to support disposable glove users. Visit her library, Latex Gloves How-To.