Red Cross needs blood donors

The humanitarian organization is short on O negative, B negative, and A negative blood types.

DETROIT – The American Red Cross is facing a shortage of the most-needed blood types and are looking for donors with O negative, B negative, and A negative blood.

Summer is the most challenging time to collect blood and platelet donations, but the need for blood donors doesn't decrease.

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"Summer blood shortages are not uncommon, but they can be prevented when generous volunteers roll up their sleeves to help save lives," said Nick Gehrig, senior communications director, Red Cross Blood Services. "Many donors have already given this summer. We're now asking donors who haven't donated, and those who are eligible again, to make an appointment to give now to help ensure blood products are available for patients."

Type O negative is universal, and can be transfused to a person with any other blood type. B negative and A negative can be transfused to those with Rh negative or positive blood.

The Red Cross is also looking for platelet donors. Platelets are a key part of ensuring blood clotting, and need to be transfused within five days after the donation, so they are always in demand. Type AB is universal for plasma and can be transfused to any blood type.

Blood donation appointments and events can be located or scheduled by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

A list of Metro Detroit blood drives can be found here.