Published by Kirby Winn on Friday, November 13, 2020 in Blog
As COVID-19 infection rates increase as the Blood Center's service region, we have seen increasing calls from public health officials and government bodies for citizens to limit trips away from home. While that's an important step for reducing the spread of COVID-19, it does raise concern that donors might cancel or postpone their next donation. Dr. Louis Katz, our Chief Medical Officer (and Medical Director for the Scott Couny, Iowa, Dept. of Public Health), explains why blood donation remains an approved, even essential, activity during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dr. Louis Katz, Chief Medical Officer
MVRBC has taken steps to ensure blood drives remain an acceptable activity under federal, state, and local public health guidelines. All donors are required to schedule an appointment for donation and all staff, donors, and volunteers are required to wear a mask. Dr. Katz explains how this has helped maintain a safe, hygienic environment for staff and donors.
Dr. Louis Katz, Chief Medical Officer
MVRBC estimates a loss of 35,000 donations due to cancelled blood drives from the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in the Midwest. Blood drive cancellations include numerous high schools, colleges, and universities as well as events hosted by businesses, churches, and civic groups. The impact of blood drive cancellations is especially concerning in the days leading up to Thanksgiving and the holiday season.
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The Blood Center is providing all presenting donors with a voucher to redeem for their choice of a blood donor T-shirt or $10 gift card. In addition, each time a donor registers to give, they will receive points to use in the Blood Center’s online Donor Loyalty Store.
To schedule an appointment for donation, call (800) 747-5401, schedule online at www.bloodcenter.org, or via the Blood Center’s mobile app (www.bloodcenter.org/app).