Oklahoma Blood Institute Urges People to Give Blood to Rebuild Supply

OKLAHOMA CITY (KOKH) – The Oklahoma Blood Institute (OBI) said there’s an immediate need for blood donors to rebuild the blood supply.

OBI said this week’s winter storm has resulted in the loss of over 70 percent of anticipated collections. The demand for blood products was already above average.

As the road conditions improve following the storm, OBI urges donors of all blood types who are 16 and older to give at the nearest donor center.

“The need for blood is constant—someone needs a life-saving transfusion every two seconds,” said John Armitage, M.D., president and CEO of Oklahoma Blood Institute. “We are calling on all healthy Oklahomans to take about an hour of their time to give blood for our friends and neighbors in need. Together we can rebuild the blood supply.”

Blood donations help with patients in hospitals, medical facilities, and air ambulances statewide. One donation saves up to three lives, OBI said.

OBI reminds donors that 16-year-olds who give blood must weigh at least 125 pounds and provide signed parental permission. 17-year-olds must weigh at least 125 pounds. 18+-year-olds must weigh at least 110 pounds. Photo IDs are required.

To schedule an appointment to give blood, call 877-340-8777 or visit obi.org to see a list of donor centers and mobile blood drives.