Emergency Blood and Platelet Shortage

FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) — Heat across the country is having a negative effect on the nation’s emergency blood supply.

It impacted around 100 blood drives in July in nearly every state where the Red Cross collects blood.

That resulted in a shortfall of 19,000 blood donations last month.

In fact, the Red Cross national blood supply has fallen by more than 25 percent during the busy summer travel season.

Those with type O blood are urged to give as soon as possible to help patients.

Those who give blood, platelets or plasma from August 1 through 31 will get a $20 Amazon gift card.

You can make an appointment online at RedCrossBlood.org.