Feb. 2, 2021 – Vitalant encourages existing and new donors to schedule a blood donation appointment in February—Heart Health Month—to do good for others and get their own health check. One of the benefits of blood donation is the mini-physical every donor receives, including a check of pulse and blood pressure as well as a cholesterol test. Donors of all blood types are needed right now, with a critical need for type O blood. 
 
Type O blood critically needed
Type O blood is the most widely used by patients because 39% of the population has O-positive blood—the most prevalent blood type. Type O-negative is called the ‘universal type’ because it is used to save the lives of all other blood types, especially during an emergency when there isn’t time to type and crossmatch the patient. There’s always a great need for O-negative blood.
 
Testing for COVID-19 antibodies continues
Vitalant continues to test donations for COVID-19 antibodies and informs donors of their results. If positive, Vitalant can produce convalescent plasma from the donation to treat patients currently battling the disease to give them an extra boost to fight their illness. Other blood components from the donation can help patients undergoing surgery, receiving treatment for cancer or requiring regular transfusions for a chronic condition. People who have received a COVID-19 vaccine are eligible to give blood, platelets or plasma if they meet all general blood donation eligibility criteria.  
 
How to Give
To learn more and schedule an appointment to donate, please click ‘Donate Now’ above or call 877-25-VITAL (877-258-4825).
 
Blood donation is an essential and necessary health care activity permitted to continue during the pandemic. Vitalant follows strict protocols to ensure the safety of donors, patients and staff, including checking temperatures, social distancing, disinfecting public areas and requiring face masks.