By NICK GOSNELL
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The American Red Cross is experiencing a severe blood shortage as the number of trauma cases, organ transplants and elective surgeries rise.
"In particular, we would urge our donors in the Hutch area, if you are O positive or O negative blood type, please find the next available blood drive and make your appointment today," said Jan Hale with the Red Cross. "Those are the two types that are in particular need."
In comparison to 2019, the Red Cross has seen demand from trauma centers climb by 10% in 2021.
"I think there is a little bit of confusion, maybe, around the vaccines," Hale said. "In particular, we are following the CDC guidelines. If you are vaccinated, then you don't need to wear a mask. If you are, we really would love for you to donate, as well."
You can donate regardless of your vaccination status.
"If you happen to get your vaccination and there's a blood drive in your area that same day, know that if you know the vaccine that you received, you won't be deferred, either," Hale said.
Blood drives in Hutchinson in June:
6/17/2021: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., Crossroads Christian Church, 4310 N Monroe
6/30/2021: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Clayworks, 1125 N Main Street