Blood supply falls below 50 percent

Donors urged to give immediately

Oklahoma Blood Institute has less than half of the blood supply needed, threatening a critical blood shortage for local patients, and creating an immediate need for blood donors.

The national blood supply has stayed near emergency levels for months, having never recovered from COVID-related challenges. Oklahoma’s supply has faced similar challenges, as well as blood drive cancellations after multiple winter weather events in February and March. Hospital demand has surged past pre-pandemic levels, exacerbating the issues caused by lower donation levels.

In response to the current situation, Oklahoma Blood Institute has extended its donor room hours to expand giving opportunities:

· Monday – Friday: 7:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

· Saturday: 7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Blood has no substitute. Patients across the state rely on blood products to fight cancer, survive trauma and heal after childbirth. Blood donation takes about an hour and can save up to three lives. Donors can find locations to donate at obi.org or by calling 877-340-8777.

“Nationally, we’ve not faced an ongoing blood shortage like this before,” Armitage said. “The pandemic created this crisis, and we are still caught with its damaging hangover effects. While the challenge is immense, so is the support of our donors, blood drive sponsors, and partners. Together, we must and will find a way.”

*16-year-olds must weigh at least 125 pounds and provide signed parental permission; 17-year-olds must weigh at least 125 pounds; 18+ year olds must weigh at least 110 pounds. Photo ID required.

Oklahoma Blood Institute is the sixth-largest independent blood center in the nation, providing more than 90% of Oklahoma’s blood supply to over 160 hospitals and medical facilities. For more information, visit obi.org.