January is National Blood Donor Month and The Red Cross is encouraging people to roll up their sleeves and give a pint. Bad weather often makes winter a slow season for blood donations and this year is no exception. Also, many people are battling colds or the flu and nationwide lower-than-expected turnouts are being seen at some blood drives. The agency is low on b negative and o negative blood at this time, but would welcome donations from people with any blood type.
To be a donor, most states request that you be healthy,17 years old or older and weigh at least 110 pounds. You can still donate if you've had the flu or a flu shot as long as you're not currently sick. Every 2 seconds someone in the United States needs blood. It may be an accident victim, cancer patient, someone needing surgery, children with blood disorders or others. The Red Cross says a single blood donation can save more than one life. If you decide to donate, eat a healthy meal beforehand, drink about 16 ounces of water, and avoid vigorous exercise for the rest of the day.
To be a donor, most states request that you be healthy,17 years old or older and weigh at least 110 pounds. You can still donate if you've had the flu or a flu shot as long as you're not currently sick. Every 2 seconds someone in the United States needs blood. It may be an accident victim, cancer patient, someone needing surgery, children with blood disorders or others. The Red Cross says a single blood donation can save more than one life. If you decide to donate, eat a healthy meal beforehand, drink about 16 ounces of water, and avoid vigorous exercise for the rest of the day.
