The American Red Cross continues to experience a national blood and platelet shortage and is asking the public to donate blood as soon as possible. Red Cross spokesperson Jen Warren says donors of all blood types are urgently needed, especially type O blood donors and those giving platelets. The Red Cross experienced a significant blood and platelet donation shortfall in August, contributing to the current shortage. Warren says to ensure the blood supply recovers, an additional 10,000 blood products need to be collected each week over the next month to meet hospital and patient needs.
