Normally we are targeted to collect 1,200 bags of blood per day, but now we can only get some 200-500 bagsJakarta (ANTARA) - The Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) has called on people to donate their blood despite the COVID-19 pandemic which has led to a sharp decline in its blood supply.
PMI has ensured stringent implementation of health protocols in the blood donation process, an official of PMI Jakarta's blood transfusion unit dr Fierly Yanarita said in a blood donation event organized by Pondok Indah Medical Centre (PIMC) here on Sunday.
"Normally, we have targeted to collect 1,200 pouches of blood per day, but now we can only get some 200-500 pouches," Yanarita said.
Blood supply has dropped since the pandemic gripped the country in March and many institutions skipped the blood donation event, she said.
Under the normal circumstances, she said, blood supply would decline during the Ramadhan fasting month but now the low supply remained almost year-long.
Fears of coronavirus transmission has reduced the number of blood donors, and there is an upward trend of direct blood donation, where families of patients sought the donors.
PMI has lowered its target to collect 40-50 pouches of blood in one blood donation event, from 75-100 pouches previously.
"To all people, I ensure that blood donation will not transmit COVID-19. Continue to donate your blood but make sure to implement health protocols. PMI ensures the implementation of 3M," Yanarita said, referring to the use of mask, physical distancing and washing hands to prevent COVID-19 transmission.
Translator: Prisca T Violetta, Sri Haryati
Editor: Suharto
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