It’s that time of year when winter cold and flu illnesses send many of us in search of a box of tissues and bed rest until we are well.
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Medical professionals report there has been a spike in symptoms in the past few weeks with increased non-attendance rates at schools and workplaces across the Hunter.
One group that is feeling the pinch harder than most is the Red Cross Blood Service, which will today activate an emergency blood appeal across Maitland.
The blood service is low across all major blood groups and has only two to three days’ supply of O negative and O positive blood.
Red Cross Blood Service spokesman Shaun Inguanzo said the problem is that up to 1000 donors a week are cancelling their donations because of cold and flu symptoms while there has also been a spike in demand for blood products.
He said donors are needed in Maitland today, tomorrow and Wednesday and urged anyone who can help to come forward.
To donate blood you must weigh more than 45kg, be fit, healthy and not suffering from a cold, flu or other illness at the time of donation or in the previous seven days
If you plan to donate you should eat something and drink at least three good-sized glasses of water or juice in the three hours before you go.
It’s important to note that the majority of donated blood goes to people with cancer, as well as people who have suffered traumatic accidents, burns or those undergoing surgery.
To donate blood please visit donateblood.com.au or phone 131495.
