Don’t delay or skip donating blood this winter. That’s the call from the Western Cape Blood Service. The Public Relations Manager at WCBS, Marike Carli, says the supply of blood over the winter is a time when it is traditionally under strain. She says this is due to colds and flu, as well as school holidays.

Carli added, “Winter is one of the most difficult periods for maintaining a stable blood supply as a result of colds and flu, and school holidays.”

Don’t delay or skip donating blood this winter

Carli, however, added that although the winter period often sees a decline in blood donations, the hospital demand for blood continues to remain constant. She says when donation levels drop, it places a strain on their stock. This ultimately affects patients, who depend on and need blood every day. Carli says this is why they are encouraging donors to remain consistent throughout the winter, rather than to delay or to skip donations.

“Do something remarkable: donate blood.”

Donate Blood this Winter

According to a WCBS statement, a single blood donation takes approximately 30 minutes. It can save up to three lives. Carli added that only a small percentage of eligible individuals donate regularly. This makes donor retention and consistency particularly important during high-risk periods such as winter.

“While winter often leads to a decline in blood donations, the hospital demand for blood remains constant.”

Be a Lifesaver

WCBS has now appealed to both existing donors and first-time donors to respond to the call to action by donating blood. The organisation has also asked them to commit to ongoing donations throughout the cold winter months. Carli says, by continuing to donate regularly, donors help WCBS maintain a stable and sufficient blood supply to meet ongoing hospital needs.

“The Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) is calling on the public to prioritise blood donation during winter, a time when supply is traditionally under strain.”

Charitable organisations

The new beneficiaries from May to August are:

“Philisa Abafazi Bethu Women’s Centre, supporting vulnerable women and children through empowerment programmes and essential services.

“St Joseph’s Intermediate Paediatric Care, providing specialised medical care and rehabilitation for children with complex health conditions.

Blood donation centres

Donors are always welcome at blood donation centres across the Western Cape. Carli says, if you are between 16 and 75, weigh 50kg or more, are in good general health, and lead a safe sexual lifestyle, you should be able to donate. She has advised people to eat a substantial meal within three to four hours before visiting a clinic and to increase their fluid intake before, during, and after donation.

“Blood donation only takes 30 minutes of your time, and you can donate blood every 56 days,” Carli added.