The San Diego Blood Bank is calling out for blood donors with type O negative and O positive blood, as the community’s supply for both types has hit critically low levels.
Type O negative is the universal blood type, meaning anyone can receive that type of blood when needed. According to the San Diego Blood Bank, is the most common blood type, which is why hospital demand is always high.
Type O is the first to be used in emergencies when a patient's blood type may be unknown for massive traumas when a large volume of blood is needed quickly. About 43% of Americans are type O.
About 38% of the population has O-positive blood, while 7% of the population has O-negative blood, according to the American Red Cross.
According to the American Red Cross, O negative is the most common blood type used for transfusions when the blood type is unknown.This is why it is used most often in cases of trauma, emergency, surgery, and any situation where blood type is unknown.
O positive red blood cells are not universally compatible with all types, but they are compatible with any positive red blood cells.
“All types are needed, but our supply of O negative and O positive blood types is low, currently at less than a one-day supply,” said Claudine Van Gonka, Director of Community Relations & Media. “It is critical that we bring the blood supply up to stable levels for hospital patients in need.”
Donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh at least 114 pounds and be in generally good health. Eligible donors are encouraged to schedule an appointment at SanDiegoBloodBank.org or by calling 619-400-8251.
