Canada, Fiji, US Blood Services Urge O-Negative Donors Amid Rising Demand

Blood donation organizations in Fiji, Canada, and the United States are issuing urgent calls for blood donations, emphasizing the critical need for specific blood types, particularly O-negative, due to fluctuating demand from emergencies and chronic illnesses. In Fiji, the blood bank system faces supply inconsistencies despite ongoing demand, relying on urgent blood drives and key donors to maintain adequate levels. Canadian Blood Services highlights that O-negative blood, known as the universal donor type, is especially vital in emergencies and urges donors to replenish supplies as inventories drop below critical levels; they also note that eligibility criteria have recently expanded, encouraging more people to donate. Similarly, the American Red Cross stresses the importance of Type O blood donors to sustain the national blood supply for trauma, cancer, and maternal care patients, offering incentives like e-gift cards and free health screenings to encourage donations. Donation events and appointment bookings are being promoted across these regions to ensure steady blood supplies and safeguard patient care amid high summer demand. All organizations underscore the ongoing need for donations of all blood types and plasma year-round to meet unpredictable healthcare needs.