All blood types needed as blood supply drops below 2-day inventory;O-negative and O-positive critically low
CONNECTICUT – Connecticut Blood Center (CTBC) has declared a blood emergency in Connecticut as the state’s blood supply drops below a 2-day inventory, far below the 7-day supply needed to meet hospital and patient needs. While all blood types are urgently needed, the shortage is especially severe for types O-negative and O-positive, which are vital for emergency situations and trauma care.
“We urgently need the community’s help to rebuild the blood supply and prevent this situation from becoming more dire,” said Jonathan DeCasanova, Account Manager & Community Relations at Connecticut Blood Center. “Donating blood is one of the most direct and impactful ways to support our healthcare system and save lives.”
Summer has brought an expected decline in donations, driven by vacations and school breaks, but combined with increased trauma cases, the impact on the local blood supply has been severe. “Every time you hear a siren or see a helicopter overhead, there’s a chance that patient will need blood,” said DeCasanova. “We need to make sure it’s on the shelves before they ever get to the hospital.”
Connecticut’s hospitals aren’t alone in this crisis. Blood shortages are a growing concern nationwide. But the solution is local – and immediate. CTBC is calling on community members to step up now and ensure blood is available for those who need it.
State leaders are also urging residents to take action, highlighting the essential role of blood donors in maintaining the state’s healthcare infrastructure.
“Every two seconds, someone in our country requires blood. Any blood shortage poses a significant and an incredibly concerning risk to patient care or our ability to save lives in the wake of disaster,” said Connecticut Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz. “Blood and platelet donations are critically needed to help prevent further delays in vital medical treatments. The power of even a single donation cannot be understated – one donation can help save more than one life. If you are an eligible donor, please don’t wait!”
How You Can Help:
In light of recent updates to FDA guidance, more people than ever may now be eligible to give. Blood donors can donate every 56 days. To view current eligibility guidelines or make an appointment, visit ctblood.org or call 1.800.283.8385.
About Connecticut Blood Center
Connecticut Blood Center (CTBC) serves as the primary supplier of lifesaving blood products to more than a dozen Connecticut hospitals, EMS and healthcare partners. CTBC is operated by Rhode Island Blood Center and is part of New York Blood Center Enterprises (NYBCe), which spans 17+ states and delivers one million blood products to 400+ U.S. hospitals annually. NYBCe additionally delivers cellular therapies, specialty pharmacy, and medical services to 200+ research, academic and biomedical organizations. NYBCe’s Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute is a leader in hematology and transfusion medicine research, dedicated to the study, prevention, treatment, and cure of bloodborne and blood-related diseases. CBC serves as a vital community lifeline dedicated to helping patients and advancing global public health. To learn more, visit ctblood.org. Connect with us on Facebook, X, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
