More than 1,500 donations lost as storm closures and hazardous conditions disrupt collections statewide
CONNECTICUT – Connecticut Blood Center (CTBC) has declared a blood emergency after last week’s historic winter storm brought record snowfall and forced widespread blood drive cancellations and travel disruptions across the state.
More than 1,500 blood donations were lost due to storm-related disruptions, leaving the region with less than a two-day blood supply, well below the 7-day level needed to support local hospitals. While regular operations have resumed, rebuilding the blood inventory will take time. Blood cannot be manufactured and has a limited shelf life, making consistent donations essential to maintaining an adequate supply.
“While the storm may have passed, the impact on our blood supply is ongoing,” said Hunter Shaffer, Vice President of Blood Operations at Connecticut Blood Center. “Hospitals and patients rely on blood donations for emergency care, surgeries, cancer treatment, and other ongoing medical needs. We encourage eligible donors to roll up their sleeves and help restore our community’s blood supply.”
Community support is urgently needed. Healthy, eligible donors are encouraged to schedule an appointment to donate as soon as it is safe to travel. Every donation can help save up to three lives and is essential to rebuilding the state’s blood inventory.
“Winter in the Northeast is particularly bad this year and combined with increased flu have contributed to decreased blood supply across the region,” said Dr. Greg Makowski, Vice President of Clinical Laboratory Services, Hartford HealthCare. “Please donate today. You’ll feel great knowing that someone in need will benefit from your donation.”
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 800.283.8385.
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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.