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The SANBS says blood group O and B are more versatile and are urging donors to come forward due to low supply.
The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) has called on South Africans to donate blood, as stock levels are critically low.
The Blood Service often faces a dip in national blood collection during the festive season.
SANBS says January is traditionally a difficult period for collections, as many regular donors travel during the festive season and schools, universities and workplaces remain closed.
SANBS Senior Communications Manager Thandi Mosupye has urged eligible donors to visit SANBS donor centres or temporary donation sites such as shopping malls.
“We are particularly sending out a call for our group O and group B blood donors because that’s where we are experiencing the most challenge in terms of blood collections. You realise that with group O, it is the blood group O, blood that is used when we’ve got emergencies. It means that this blood group can donate to anybody in the event where somebody needs blood, and they can also receive blood from anybody,” adds Mosupye.
To ensure a consistent and reliable blood supply for patients, our goal is to maintain a five-day stock, particularly for blood groups O and B. We currently have just over three days’ coverage, and we encourage all donors to support us by donating and helping us reach our daily… pic.twitter.com/OCq9zYqOpX
— The SANBS (@theSANBS) January 7, 2026
