All blood types needed as blood supply drops below 2-day inventory;
O-negative and O-positive critically low
DELAWARE – Blood Bank of Delmarva (BBD) has declared a blood emergency in Delmarva as the region’s blood supply drops below a 2-day inventory, far below the 7-day supply needed to meet hospital and patient needs. While all blood types are urgently needed, the shortage is especially severe for types O-negative and O-positive, which are vital for emergency situations and trauma care.
“We urgently need the community’s help to rebuild the blood supply and prevent this situation from becoming more dire,” said Keith Heim, Vice President at Blood Bank of Delmarva. “Donating blood is one of the most direct and impactful ways to support our healthcare system and save lives.”
Summer has brought an expected decline in donations, driven by vacations and school breaks, but combined with increased trauma cases, the impact on the local blood supply has been severe. “Every time you hear a siren or see a helicopter overhead, there’s a chance that patient will need blood,” said Heim. “We need to make sure it’s on the shelves before they ever get to the hospital.”
Delmarva’s hospitals aren’t alone in this crisis. Blood shortages are a growing concern nationwide. But the solution is local – and immediate. BBD is calling on community members to step up now and ensure blood is available for those who need it.
Mark R. Marcantano, JD, President of Nemours Children’s Health, Delaware Valley, emphasized the urgency: “A successful blood transfusion can mean the difference between life and death for one of our young patients. The need for a diverse blood supply is constant, but the supply is not, which can cause blood emergencies like the one we are currently experiencing. Please consider donating blood with Blood Bank of Delmarva today, and as often as possible after that. Help us to maintain a healthy blood supply, and in turn, you will help to save the lives of community members in need.”
State health leaders are also urging residents to take action, highlighting the essential role of blood donors in maintaining the state’s healthcare infrastructure.
“Blood donations save lives and support our neighbors. If everyone donated blood once per season, it’s likely that shortages would not occur,” said Delaware Lt. Governor Kyle Evans Gay, a blood donor herself. “Thank you to Blood Bank of Delmarva for doing this critical work, helping to build stronger, healthier communities in the First State.”
How You Can Help:
- Donate now. Schedule a blood or platelet donation at a BBD donor center or mobile drive near you — including our recently reopened Salisbury donor center. Visit delmarvablood.org or call 1-888-8-BLOOD-8 to book an appointment.
- Host a drive. Start one at your school, business, or place of worship. Learn more here.
- Spread the word. Invite a friend to donate with you and share this urgent message.
In light of recent updates to FDA guidance, more people than ever may now be eligible to give. Blood donors can donate every 56 days, and platelet donors can give up to twice per month. To view current eligibility guidelines or make an appointment, visit delmarvablood.org or call 1-888-8-BLOOD-8.
About Blood Bank of Delmarva Founded in 1954, Blood Bank of Delmarva (BBD) has served the Delmarva Peninsula for 70 years, delivering nearly 90,000 lifesaving blood products annually to 40+ hospitals, EMS and healthcare partners. BBD is part of New York Blood Center Enterprises (NYBCe), which spans 17+ states and delivers one million blood products to 400+ U.S. hospitals annually. NYBCe additionally delivers cellular therapies, specialty pharmacy, and medical services to 200+ research, academic and biopharmaceutical organizations. NYBCe’s Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute is a leader in hematology and transfusion medicine research, dedicated to the study, prevention, treatment and cure of bloodborne and blood-related diseases. BBD serves as a vital community lifeline dedicated to helping patients and advancing global public health. To learn more, visit delmarvablood.org. Connect with us on Facebook, X, Instagram, and LinkedIn