The Western Kentucky Regional Blood Center is continuing to reach out to community partners for help with blood donations, as they are in critical need.
They are still unable to host their usual blood drives due to restrictions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and while all blood types are wanted, they are in the greatest need for O-negative blood. Robbin Shively with the center says if anyone has a large location that would allow for social distancing, they would love to partner with them to host a community blood drive.
She says most donated blood is being used as quickly as it is processed and tested, so demand is high, and there are numerous patients across their service area that need those donations.
Shively says the safety procedures they take has increased due to coronavirus, but it’s all in the name of health.
Donors must be at least 17 years old—16 year olds can give with parental permission—weigh at least 115 pounds and wait 56 days between donations.
Medications must be checked with staff before donating. All donors must show a photo ID and are advised to eat well before and after giving. For more information, call the center at (270) 885-0728.