Critical appeal for Type O-negative donors

Hoxworth Blood Center, University of Cincinnati is releasing a critical appeal for type O- negative blood. All eligible individuals are being asked to donate blood immediately.

“We are asking all eligible individuals with Type O- negative blood to donate as soon as possible,” reports Alecia Lipton, Hoxworth spokesperson. “Blood is being distributed to local hosopitals faster than it can be collected, and we cannot rely on acquiring blood from other communities at this time.”

It is critical to have a healthy supply of O- negative blood on hand, according to Lipton, because it can be transfused to any other blood type in the event of an emergency or mass trauma.

“Recent heavy usage due to traumas and organ transplants, coupled with low donor turnout in recent weeks, has drained local supply of O- negative blood,” said David Oh, MD, Chief Medical Officer of Hoxworth Blood Center. “We urge the community to schedule a donation as soon as possible to ensure that patients in need will have lifesaving blood products available when needed."

Appointments are highly encouraged at this time, and masks are required. To schedule a donation, call (513) 451-0910 or visit www.hoxworth.org.