American Red Cross Declares Emergency Blood Shortage

The American Red Cross has declared an emergency blood shortage following a 25 percent decline in donations throughout the month of June.

With the summer travel season in full swing and school blood drives on hiatus, the gap between the available blood supply and patient need is widening at an alarming rate.

While all blood types are urgently needed, officials note the shortage is especially critical for platelets, type O-positive, and type B-negative blood.

Appointments can be made through the free Blood Donor App, by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS.