ALOR STAR – Blood supplies in Kedah are now at critical levels, with stocks at the blood centre only left for less than four days.
Kedah transfusion services chief Dr Siti Nadiah Abdul Kadir said stocks would not be able to last if no donors come forward soon.
“There has been a drop of between 30% and 40% in blood collection since movement control order 3.0 and the National Recovery Plan were implemented from June 1.
“The drop can be attributed to the movement restrictions, as members of the public are afraid to venture out following an increase in positive cases of Covid-19 in Kedah,” she said in a statement today.
Siti said that despite elective surgeries being put on hold, the use of blood is still high since cases like road accidents still need blood supplies.
“Blood is also needed for patients undergoing emergency and minor surgeries, mothers who suffer blood loss during delivery, and thalassaemic and anaemic patients who need a continuous blood supply.
“I appeal to the public to come forward and donate blood to ensure that treatments for patients needing blood transfusions are not affected,” she said.
She said the public need not worry since the blood donation unit exercises strict preventive measures against Covid-19 such as wearing face masks, exercising physical distancing, and ensuring no congestion at donation centres.
“Those eligible to donate should be between 17 and 60 years old, weigh 45kg or more, have slept more than five hours, and are free of any diseases. For those who have taken the Covid-19 vaccine, they can donate blood after seven days if there are no symptoms,” she added.
Donors can come to the blood donation units at Sultanah Bahiyah Hospital in Alor Star and other hospitals in the state, or call 04-7746051 for more information. – Bernama, August 8, 2021
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