January's cold weather has caused a blood shortage in Michigan
(FOX 2) - The polar vortex has passed, but left in its wake aren't just millions wishing to avoid its subfreezing temperatures.
The icy weather has also caused a blood shortage in Michigan.
Reported by Michigan Blood, a subset of Versiti which hosts community blood drives in surrounding states, said they had to cancel more than 80 events in January. The cancellations resulted in more than 3,000 fewer blood donations.
The group typically likes to have a four day surplus in all types of blood, as well as plasma and platelets. While they still have an excess of AB Negative and AB Positive, the group reports they only have 35 percent of their O Negative and O Positive blood types left.
The group typically likes to have a four day surplus in all types of blood, as well as plasma and platelets. While they still have an excess of AB Negative and AB Positive, the group reports they only have 35 percent of their O Negative and O Positive blood types left.
“The need for life-saving blood for our hospital partners across Michigan is severe and relentless. For every donation, up to three lives can be saved,” said Dr. Lee Ann Weitekamp, senior medical director at Versiti Blood Center of Michigan in a press release.
Fay Spano, the director of public relations with Versiti said that when the company runs low on donations, it becomes difficult to supply the 69 hospitals in Michigan.
"From a numbers standpoint, the forced cancellation of more than 80 hospitals, that's pretty integral," Fay said. "We really rely on those in addition to the appointment donations."
Historically, winter months already struggle to keep up with donation numbers. The added problem of polar winds only compounds the problem. And the inclement weather hasn't stopped. Due to the rain/ice conditions this week, Versiti had to cancel 10 more drives.
Anyone interested in donating can schedule an appointment at www.versiti.org/michigan.