The American Red Cross says we’re now under a blood shortage emergency, as extreme heat, natural disasters and summer vacations are causing a critical drop in donations. Josh Murray, spokesman for the Red Cross’ Nebraska-Iowa Region, says Iowa has seen more than its share of destructive storms and flooding lately, and those elements combined with routine summertime activities are causing a serious problem.
Murray says the heat impacted almost a hundred blood drives during July in nearly every state where the Red Cross collects blood. The summer months are typically a slower time for blood donations, and Murray all blood types are needed in Iowa, especially Type-O.
Anyone in Iowa who gives blood, platelets or plasma during August will get a $20 Amazon gift card. For details, visit www.redcrossblood.org/help or call 1-800-RED CROSS.
