Plummeting blood donations since Memorial Day holiday has forced United Blood Services to issue an emergency appeal for all blood types, especially all Rh negative types: A-negative, B-negative, AB-negative and O-negative.

The Fourth of July holiday has worsened the severity of low blood inventory levels.  As the community blood provider for this area and stewards of the community blood supply, maintaining an adequate supply of all blood types is imperative.  Reserves of blood are depleted to a less than one day supply on the shelves. 

Since it takes 24 to 36 hours to test and process each donation before it can be released for a patient, blood is being transfused as fast as United Blood Services can provide it to hospitals.

Donors of all types are urgently needed to give blood now.  To schedule a blood donation online, go to www.bloodhero.com  or call United Blood Services at 662-842-8871.

“Unfortunately, due to high patient usage and fewer donations from the public, we find it necessary to alert the public about the dire need for all blood types, especially the Rh negative types” said Mitzi Breaux, Marketing and Communications Manager, United Blood Services. “If you are eligible to donate, please give now!” Breaux said.

Donors with Rh negative blood types are asked to inquire with a United Blood Services staff member about doubling their impact by donating Double Red Cells.

Appointments are highly recommended. Knowing how many to expect means we are better able to serve our donors. Walk-ins are welcome.

To schedule a blood donation online, go to www.bloodhero.com  or call United Blood Services at 877-UBS-HERO (877-827-4376).