May 11, 2021 - News

Central Iowa low on blood supply. Here's how to donate.

Jason Clayworth

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Someone inserts a needle into another person's arm — Photo: Hauke-Christian Dittrich/picture alliance via Getty Images

Our emergency blood supply in central Iowa is low, Danielle West, a spokesperson for LifeServe, told Axios Monday.

The blood center has less than half of the desired three- to five-day supply. (It serves more than 120 Iowa, Nebraska and South Dakota hospitals.)

Why it matters: The supply saves lives.

Increasing supplies now is particularly important as we head into the summer months, which is when demand often spikes.

The big picture: Nearly 2,700 blood drives have been canceled over the last year due to coronavirus concerns, resulting in tens of thousands of fewer donations, according to the American Red Cross.

All but one of the Midwest region's 19 community blood centers have less than a three-day supply, according to tracking posted yesterday by America's Blood Centers.
Four (21%) have a day or less of supply, which is almost twice the national rate.

Take action: People may go online to schedule a donation at dozens of donor centers or mobile drives scheduled in central Iowa in the next month.

Or call: 800-287-4903

One opportunity: LifeServe's mobile buses will be located at MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center's parking lot (near the helipad) downtown, 1111 6th Ave from 9am-4pm Friday.

Of note: People who recently got the COVID-19 vaccine are eligible to give blood.

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Central Iowa low on blood supply. Here's how to donate.

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