Blood Supply at Critical Low as IBTS Urges Donors to Act This Week

Ireland's blood supply has fallen to its lowest level this year, with the Irish Blood Transfusion Service (IBTS) issuing an urgent appeal for donors to attend clinics this week.

The IBTS says stocks dropped sharply following the extended bank holiday weekend, with high hospital demand during March combining with lower donor attendance over the St Patrick's Day and Easter periods.

Barry Doyle, IBTS Director of Production and Hospital Services, said:

"As of this morning, we have just over 2 days supply of O positive and just over 3 days for other key blood groups.

We have contacted the hospitals to advise that the stock levels are very low and we will be actively managing stock to ensure blood is available for those who need it most."

The IBTS aims to maintain 7 days' supply at all times, but current levels across most blood groups are significantly below that target. Group O Positive is at its lowest point this year.

To address the shortfall, the IBTS has added five extra clinics nationwide on Sunday, 12 April. The service says it needs to increase collections by an additional 500 donations per week across all blood groups before the May bank holiday to keep pace with demand.

A stock management letter has been issued to all hospitals, allowing the IBTS to manage available supply more effectively across the health service. The service says it is working closely with hospital teams to avoid the cancellation of elective surgery or restrictions on patient treatment.

Doyle said:

"We are asking regular donors to make an extra effort to attend their nearest clinic, especially in Dublin and Cork where we have clinic availability every week."

In Cork, donation clinics are running this week at the Cork Centre and in Glanmire and Kanturk. Donors in Cork and across the country can book an appointment online at giveblood.ie or by calling 1800 731 137. Walk-ins are also welcome, though appointment holders will be seen more quickly.

New donors are particularly encouraged to come forward. Those interested in giving blood for the first time can check their eligibility at giveblood.ie/become-a-donor before attending a clinic.