Blood Crisis Hits U.S. Hospitals | Albany News

The American Red Cross is in the midst of a critical national blood shortage — the second in its 145-year history — with Type O positive blood at a dangerously low level and hospitals forced to ration supplies. With blood spoiling in just 42 days and someone needing transfusions every two seconds, the crisis is fueled by seasonal illness, travel, and surging hospital demand. Type O negative, the universal donor, and platelets — vital for cancer patients with a 5-day shelf life — are especially scarce. Donating can save up to three lives — find a center near you or start planning a donation event today. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/a26d3dd5272e9f26