Donor Call Issued to Avert Blood Shortage

Hoping to forestall a shortage of blood that often accompanies the holiday season, officials of the Orange County chapter of the American Red Cross are urging the public to participate in coming blood drives.

“Over the holidays fewer people think of donating blood,” Red Cross spokeswoman Judy Iannaccone said. “They get caught up in shopping and everything, and also there’s a lot of illnesses, so as a result fewer people donate.”

In addition, Iannaccone said, hospitals usually need more blood in January, a month in which many people choose to have elective surgeries.

“We end up with a greater need for blood after a period of decreased donations,” she said. “We’re trying to keep from having a shortage this year.”

According to Red Cross officials, another reason for the local shortages is that only 1% to 2% of Orange County residents donate blood, while the national average is 3% to 4%.

Blood drives will take place Dec. 27 at St. John Neumann Parish, 5101 Alton Parkway in Irvine, and at LDS Mission Viejo, 27976 Marguerite Parkway. Information: (714) 835-5381.