PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — There is a dire need for blood donations here in Philadelphia and across the country.
The dangerously low supply poses a concern for patient care, as doctors are forced to make decisions about who gets blood and when.
"Right now we have less than a one-day supply of blood products on hand," said Guy Triano, regional CEO of the American Red Cross Southeastern Pennsylvania division.
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"Typically we like to have a five-day supply. This is a national crisis, not just in this area, but the entire country and all blood services."
Winter and its associated holidays usually mean donations drop, but this is the second year that the coronavirus pandemic is having an impact. This is the worst blood shortage seen in more than a decade.
The Red Cross wants people to make appointments to give as soon as possible, and if you had coronavirus, it's not an issue.
"If you recovered from COVID and are feeling fine, you are able to donate blood," said Triano.
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"It is not a virus that is in your blood, so it certainly has been proven that there is no risk for donating blood."
But not everyone is eligible to donate.
- People under 16 years old.
- Those who take certain medications and have specific medical conditions.
- Men who have sex with men. They currently have to wait three months from last intimate contact, an FDA requirement that is currently under study. The Red Cross said donation eligibility should not be determined by sexual orientation.
All blood is tested.
Click here to set up a Red Cross blood donation.
