Hoxworth Blood Center has issued an emergency appeal for donors of all blood types, especially Type O, and platelets.
The community?s blood supply is down 615 units in type O+ and O- combined, which are the types in greatest demand at local hospitals. (one unit = one pint)
Reasons for the shortage include heavy usage at local hospitals last weekend and below average collections. Attempts to source blood and blood products from other blood centers have been denied due to critical shortages nationwide. Hospitals and trauma centers can’t function without Type O blood, the most common blood type.
Approximately 44 percent of the population is either O+ or O- (38 percent O+ and 6 person O-).
Inventory levels at Hoxworth are at the lowest point they have ever been this summer. Blood or platelet donations can be made at the Hoxworth Building on the UC Academic Health Center campus or at one of Hoxworth?s eight neighborhood donation centers in Anderson, Blue Ash, Downtown, Ft. Mitchell, Ft. Thomas, Mason, Tri-County and Western Hills.
Walk-ins are welcome. Appointments can be scheduled by calling (513) 451-0910.