4 Things to Know About Donating Blood during COVID-19
We are a group of designers and clinicians who conducted research about the COVID-19 blood donation problem. Here are 4 important – and somewhat surprising – things we learned.
Giving blood is safe and allowed during COVID-19
Blood donation is considered an essential activity, and collection facilities are taking extra safety precautions right now. (See Red Cross COVID-19 guidance, for example) Still, some drives and appointments are being canceled due to social distancing - so it may be harder than usual to find an appointment.
The need for blood is ongoing
The shelf life is 42 days for blood and 5 days for platelets, and life-saving blood transfusions help very sick patients in the hospital and people with certain chronic health conditions. We’ll need a steady stream of blood donors like you in the weeks and months to come.
An appointment in the future is as important as an appointment today
With fewer drives happening, you may not see appointments available immediately. Try looking 2-4 weeks–or even further–into the future; help blood donation centers fill every appointment!
Eligibility can be tricky
Here’s how you can help
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