NHS Issues National Blood Shortage Amber Alert
The NHS has issued a critical alert over a severe shortage of O-type blood in England, urging donors to step up and help replenish supplies. This "perfect storm" of increased hospital demand and unfilled donor appointments has pushed stocks to dangerously low levels.
National stocks of O negative have plummeted to just 1.6 days' worth, well below the six-day target.
Why is there a shortage?
The cyber-attack on the pathology firm Synovis last month has significantly impacted blood stocks, particularly O negative, the universal blood type used in emergencies. As a result, London hospitals have faced delays in running blood type checks, forcing them to rely heavily on O negative supplies.
Since the attack, the need for O negative blood has surged by 94%, equating to an additional 170 donations per week.
Dr. Jo Farrar, CEO of NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT), described the situation as "critical" and stressed the urgent need for donations. "We're making an additional 1,000 appointments per week available, please take a moment to go online and book," she urged.
Summer season worsens shortage
The summer season has worsened the shortage, with fewer donors available due to holidays and travel. High temperatures also contribute to a decline in donations, as people struggle with hydration and lower iron levels.
To tackle the crisis, NHSBT has issued an "Amber Alert," asking hospitals to restrict the use of O-type blood to essential cases and use alternatives where safe to do so.
Why is O negative blood so important?
O negative blood is crucial as it can be safely transfused to any patient, making it indispensable in emergencies. Despite only 8% of the population having O negative blood, it accounts for about 16% of hospital orders. Air ambulances and emergency response vehicles always carry O negative supplies due to its universal compatibility.
Hospitals will continue to perform urgent surgeries, cancer treatments, transplants, and long-term condition treatments despite the shortage. However, the NHS is pushing for both existing and new donors to book appointments urgently. There are still 45,000 slots to be filled by September, and regular donations are vital to maintain a steady supply.
How to donate
NHSBT runs 235 mobile blood collection sessions weekly and has 25 permanent donor centres with available appointments. They need close to full bookings year-round to meet the demand of 1.5 million units of blood required annually. Dr. Gail Miflin, NHSBT's chief medical officer, emphasised the need for more regular donors, noting, "Ultimately, we need more people to be regular blood donors and come to one of our 25 donor centres."
The call to action is clear: if you're an O-type blood donor, your contribution is more critical than ever. Book an appointment through the NHS website, the GiveBloodNHS app, or by calling 0300 123 23 23. Your donation can make a lifesaving difference.
