Flooding, COVID-19 pandemic cause blood shortage in Michigan
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Flooding and the COVID-19 pandemic has created a greater need for blood donations in Michigan.
Versiti Blood Center of Michigan said they are in dire need of donations, especially for the O-negative blood type, after hundreds of donations appointments were cancelled because of the flooding in mid-Michigan.
“Our blood supply is not meeting hospital demand. That is the situation we face today,” Versiti Blood Center of Michigan Area Vice President Dawn Kaiser said. “Hospitals are resuming surgeries and trauma cases are increasing as the stay-at-home orders are relaxed. We must be able to provide blood. Lives depend on it.”
Versiti said they require all employees and donors to wear cloth face coverings. They said social distancing is being practiced at all their centers and blood drives. Temperatures are taken before the appointment. They are also disinfecting all centers and donation sites.
The blood center said that donation takes about an hour and that donors should bring photo identification that includes a birth date. 16-year-olds can donate with parental consent.
Versiti said walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are preferred, which can be made by calling 866-642-5663 or visiting their website.
