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<p>The Red Cross and OneBlood are experiencing the worst blood shortage in over a decade. The dangerously low blood supply levels have forced some hospitals to defer patients from major surgery, including organ transplants. It has never been more important to donate blood! By having a supply ready, healthcare providers can have access to the blood they need to help people when an emergency happens. In the U.S., someone needs a blood transfusion every two seconds, creating an ongoing need for donations.</p>
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<p><strong>Who is eligible to donate blood?&nbsp;</strong></p>
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<p>General eligibility requirements to donate include being:</p>
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<p>In good health and feeling well</p>
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<p>At least 16 years old (in most states)</p>
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<p>At least 110 pounds</p>
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<p>In addition to these criteria, recent travel, current and recent medications and ongoing medical conditions may affect a donor’s ability to donate. For more information to help determine if you may be eligible to donate, review the eligibility requirements by donation type, visit https://blog.healthadvocate.com/2022/01/urgent-blood-donations-needed/</p>
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<p><strong>What happens during the donation process?</strong></p>
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<p>Donating blood typically involves a four-step process:</p>
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<ol><li>Make an appointment. Once you arrive at the donation facility, you will check in with the staff by providing ID and review basic information about blood donations.</li><li>Next, you will be screened as part of a mini physical and answer a few questions to ensure your eligibility. Any information discussed during this process is private and confidential.</li><li>During the donation, which generally takes 8-10 minutes, you will be seated or lying down. Staff and volunteers will always be nearby in case you have any questions during the donation.</li><li>Finally, once you’re done donating, you will have the opportunity to relax and enjoy a snack before going on with your day.</li></ol>
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<p><strong>How is COVID-19 influencing donations?</strong></p>
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<p>The American Red Cross and OneBlood are being very cautious when it comes to COVID-19 and donations. They have rigorous safety protocols to keep staff and donors healthy. If you are interested in donating blood but have had a recent diagnosis of COVID-19, tested positive or have any symptoms of COVID-19, it is necessary to wait at least 14 days before you can donate.</p>
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<p>If you have been vaccinated for COVID-19, in most cases, there is no deferral time for individuals who received a COVID-19 vaccine as long as they are symptom-free and feeling well at the time of donation. The following eligibility guidelines apply to each COVID-19 vaccine received, including boosters:</p>
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<p>There is no deferral time for eligible blood donors who are vaccinated with an inactivated or RNA-based COVID-19 vaccine manufactured by AstraZeneca, Janssen/J&amp;J, Moderna, Novavax, or Pfizer.&nbsp;</p>
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<p>Eligible blood donors who received a live attenuated COVID-19 vaccine or do not know what type of COVID-19 vaccine they received must wait two weeks before giving blood.</p>
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<p><strong>How can you find a blood donation event nearby?</strong></p>
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<p>To find a blood drive in your area, use the Red Cross’ or OneBlood’s online search tool. Additionally, you can donate at any number of donation centers across the country.&nbsp;</p>
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<p>Appointments are strongly encouraged.&nbsp;</p>
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<p><strong>To learn more about blood donation, please visit any of the websites below for additional information:</strong></p>
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<p>RedCrossBlood.org</p>
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<p>OneBlood.org</p>
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<p>Centers for Disease Control and Prevention</p>
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<p>By becoming a blood donor, you can help others and potentially save the lives of your family, friends and neighbors. In fact, one donation can help save three lives!</p>
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