As Coronavirus spreads in Kentucky and across the United States, Kentucky Blood Center is urging healthy individuals to donate blood to ensure adequate blood supply.
“Emerging illness which could impact the blood supply is always at top of mind at blood centers,” said Dr. Dennis Williams, Medical Director at Kentucky Blood Center. “There is no known risk of transmitting the virus through blood, but the greater concern is the loss of donations due to drive cancellations, social distancing, and possible quarantines.”
KBC does ask donors to refrain from giving blood for 28 days after having traveled to Center for Disease Control Warning Level 3 countries where the Coronavirus is most prominent. Currently included in this category are China, Iran, South Korea, and Italy. Additionally, individuals who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 (novel coronavirus) or have had close contact with someone who has been diagnosed with COVID-19 should not donate.
“We are urging those eligible, both repeat and first-time donors, to donate as soon as possible,” said Dr. Dennis Williams, Medical Director at Kentucky Blood Center. “Blood donation continues to be a safe, simple life-saving process.”
KBC is monitoring information about the Coronavirus and will take additional steps as necessary.
“Kentucky Blood Center is the sole provider of blood to all local hospitals, and serves more than 70 hospitals in the state,” said Martha Osborne, Vice President of Marketing. “Transfusions continue at a normal rate despite the virus outbreak, therefore, it is imperative that donations keep pace during this time.”
To find out more about where to donate, make an appointment or complete your online health history on the day of your donation, visit kybloodcenter.org. KBC has six donor centers and hosts mobile blood drives throughout the state daily. Walk-ins are always welcome.
About Kentucky Blood Center
Kentucky Blood Center is the largest independent, full-service, nonprofit blood center in Kentucky. Licensed by the FDA, KBC’s sole purpose is to collect, process and distribute blood for patients in Kentucky. KBC provides services in 90 Kentucky counties and has donor centers in Lexington, Louisville, Pikeville and Somerset.
