Winter Weather Affects Blood Donations: Here's How

Blood donation queries: Blood donation saves lives. However, winter weather may have an impact on blood donations. Here’s what you need to know before donating blood.

Your blood is more precious than money or worldly possessions. So, donate blood to save a life.

Blood donations are needed year-round to save lives, but the winter months are typically marked by busy holiday schedules, inclement weather and seasonal illness like the flu, which makes it difficult for blood donors to make and keep donation appointments. It is encouraged now more than ever to donate blood—which is simple and safe— and usually takes under one hour. By doing so, you will help those who need it the most, especially cancer patients.

What You Need to Know Before Donating Blood

Jacqueline Manago, RN, Blood and Marrow Transplant Coordinator in the Blood and Marrow Transplant and Cellular Therapies Program at Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, the state’s leading cancer program and only National Cancer Institute-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, together with RWJBarnabas Health, answers common questions about blood donation.

Blood Donation: Foods to Eat Before and After Donating Blood
Donating blood is a life-saving act. Consider increasing your iron intake before and after you donate blood. Read the article to know what kind of foods and liquids you need to consume and avoid before and after donating blood.

‘Every drop of blood counts. Let’s give the gift of blood to save a life.’
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How can my blood help a cancer patient

Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and other treatments used to treat cancer can impact the body’s ability to generate healthy blood cells, so those undergoing cancer treatment routinely require blood transfusions, especially in patients whose cancer begins in the bone marrow. This includes blood-related cancers like leukemia, multiple myeloma, and lymphomas. Patients who are on a daily treatment regimen need their blood type readily available at all times.

The CDC warns about a potentially severe flu season. Will it be safe to donate blood

COVID-19 Response Strengthened By Blood Donation
Countries must boost donation of safe blood and strengthen the response to COVID-19 pandemic, according to WHO.

Sanitary and disinfection protocols are in place to help protect donors and staff members. For those that have the flu, it is important to wait until you no longer exhibit flu symptoms, have recovered completely and feel well before attempting to donate. All blood donors are required to feel healthy on the day of donation.

Can I donate blood if I’ve received a COVID-19 vaccination

Government Issues New Guidelines on Blood Donation Amid Coronavirus Pandemic
Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare announced guidelines for blood transfusion services in the country amid novel coronavirus pandemic.

Yes. The COVID-19 vaccination does not affect your ability to give blood.

Who is eligible to donate blood

Does Iron Deficiency in Blood Donors Affect Quality of Blood?
Iron deficiency in donors has no adverse effects on regular blood donors’ safety or the quality of donated blood.

To be eligible to donate blood, one must be at least 17 years, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health.

How should I prepare for blood donation

Get a good night’s sleep before your donation. Drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious foods before giving blood.

Source-Newswise