With low supplies, Red Cross seeks blood donations

The American Red Cross, Northern Ohio Blood Services Region, reported today having only a half-day supply of type O negative blood, and urged all eligible donors to give blood as soon as possible.
On Tuesday, the supply of O negative was zero, and there were only four pints of type B negative blood available. Overall on Tuesday, the blood supply of six of eight blood types was below minimum inventory standards.
As a consequence, the Northern Ohio Region was unable to supply all the needs of the 57 hospitals served in the 19-county area, said Karen Kelley, Red Cross spokeswoman.
Eligible donors must be at least 17, weigh at least 110 pounds, be in good health and be able to provide a valid photo ID. For more information or to find a local blood drive, call (800) 448-3543 or visit www.redcross.org/northernohio.