The New York Blood Center has declared an unprecedented second blood emergency this summer after the regional blood supply fell to its lowest level since the COVID-19 pandemic, driven by extreme heat, severe storms, power outages and ongoing storm cleanup that have sharply reduced blood donations.
The organization said its overall blood inventory has dropped to about a two-day supply, far below the level needed to meet the needs of hospitals throughout New York and New Jersey. Supplies of Type O-negative blood — the universal blood type used in emergencies — have fallen to less than half a day’s supply.
There are two upcoming blood drives on the North Fork & Shelter Island: Friday, July 17 from noon to 6 p.m. at the Shelter Island Youth Center (to sign up for appointments, click here), and Monday, July 20 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Poquatuck Hall on Skippers Lane in Orient (to sign up for appointments, click here).
The latest emergency comes just weeks after the blood center issued a similar alert around Memorial Day, marking the first time it has declared two blood emergencies during a single summer.
“We prepare for seasonal challenges every year, but the combination of extreme weather, disrupted routines and low national inventories has created an unprecedented situation,” said Andrea Cefarelli, chief operating officer for blood and laboratory operations at the New York Blood Center Enterprises. “Normally, when one region experiences shortages, blood centers across the country can help support one another. Unfortunately, blood inventories are low nationwide, limiting that safety net. We need our local communities to step forward now.”
According to the blood center, a combination of prolonged heat waves, severe weather, widespread power outages and recovery efforts has significantly reduced donor turnout during a period when blood supplies are already under seasonal pressure.
The organization is urging healthy, eligible donors — particularly those with Type O blood — to make an appointment as soon as possible. Blood donations are needed to support trauma victims, cancer patients, people living with sickle cell disease and thalassemia, transplant recipients and patients undergoing surgery and other lifesaving treatments.
The blood center is also asking employers, schools, faith-based organizations, community groups, elected officials and media outlets to encourage blood donations in the coming days.
Whole blood donors may give every 56 days, while platelet donors may donate up to twice a month. The blood center noted that recent updates to federal eligibility guidelines have expanded the number of people who are eligible to donate.
Appointments are encouraged, although walk-in donors are also welcome. To schedule an appointment or review donor eligibility requirements, visit nybc.org or call 1-800-933-2566.