Blood donation centers are currently facing challenges with shipments and distribution due to a global tech outage. A planned shipment of at least 20 platelets from Blood Assurance has been delayed because of flight disruptions caused by the outage.
Platelets, which are disc-shaped blood components that aid in blood clotting, are crucial for various medical procedures such as surgeries, cancer treatments, and managing aplastic anemia. Blood Assurance has reached out to the community for support, emphasizing the importance of blood donations during this time.
New York Blood Center, a key blood supplier to around 200 hospitals in the northeastern United States, has implemented an emergency driving operation to ensure the distribution of collected blood. Due to the inability to transport test tubes by air, the center is experiencing delays of 12 to 24 hours in obtaining test results.
Blood Centers of America, which relies on shipping services like FedEx, is also grappling with delayed testing outcomes. The disruptions in transportation have necessitated alternative measures to ensure that blood products reach their intended destinations in a timely manner.
Despite these challenges, blood donation centers are appreciative of the ongoing support from donors and the community. The collective efforts of individuals coming forward to donate blood play a vital role in maintaining the availability of essential blood products for those in need.
