Summer trauma season strains blood supply

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – Blood and platelet donors are urgently needed, and WVU Hospitals is calling on all eligible individuals to schedule a donation today. 

During the summer, the blood supply naturally declines because family travel and school breaks lead to fewer donations.  

However, providers at the WVU Critical Care and Trauma Institute say the summer months bring an increase in patients suffering traumatic injuries, especially from motor vehicle accidents, ATV crashes, and outdoor sports. 

Treating severe injuries puts a strain on a blood supply that is already running low. According to the American Red Cross, a single person injured in a serious car accident can require up to 100 units of blood. 

“Blood and platelets cannot be manufactured – they can only come from volunteer donors,” Michael Edmond, M.D., WVU Medicine chief medical officer, said. “These resources are essential for routine surgeries, cancer treatments, chronic illnesses, and traumatic injuries. One donation can help save more than one life, so your response right now is critical.” 

Individuals who are at least 17 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds, and have not donated blood in the last 56 days may be eligible to donate blood.   

A blood drive from noon to 6 p.m. on Tuesday, July 7, in Room A of the Bruce McClymonds Conference Center at WVU Medicine J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital. All donors will receive a T-shirt. 

“Donating blood takes only a few minutes, and it has an immediate, life-saving impact on our patients,” Dr. Edmond said. “If you are generally healthy and eligible, please consider donating today.”  

To schedule an appointment or to find a blood drive near you, visit RedCrossBlood.org.