Urgent call for blood donors

AuSTRALIAN Red Cross Lifeblood is making a twin appeal for blood and plasma donors to boost supplies now and through the Easter period.

Right now, Lifeblood needs 3,600 people to donate blood over the next week, in particular people who are A, B and O Positive and universal O Negative treat patients when their blood type is unknown. It’s often stocked in ambulances and rescue helicopters to be used for trauma patients who can require huge quantities in a short amount of time.

Lifeblood is also asking people to book a donation between Good Friday and Easter Monday to ensure an ongoing supply of blood and plasma for patients who will need it during the long weekend.

Lifeblood Executive Director Cath Stone said that despite record numbers of people donating blood and plasma, demand from hospitals is at its highest level in nearly a decade.

“Fewer than seven per cent of the Australian population is O Negative, making it one of the rarer blood types, however its versatility means it makes up 16 per cent of the blood ordered by hospitals,” she added.

Ms Stone said Lifeblood was also asking people to book a donation now for the Easter period, which is often one of the most challenging times of the year for Lifeblood.

“And that starts right now.”

Former Premier Dominic Perrottet thanked his family, volunteers and former leaders when he conceded. He also announced he would be stepping down.

“It has been an absolute honour and privilege, the greatest honour and privilege that I have had in my entire life,” Mr Perrottet said.