From staff reports
The American Red Cross is urging healthy donors of all blood types to give blood or platelets to ensure a strong blood supply for patients as the U.S. braces for flu season while in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Getting the flu shot doesn’t affect blood donation eligibility. Medical experts are urging people to get the flu shot to avoid a flu epidemic on top of the current COVID-19 pandemic.
Get the flu vaccine this year to help protect the nation from the virus but also to ensure that patients continue to have access to lifesaving blood products.
There is no waiting period to give blood or platelets after receiving a flu shot as long as the donor is symptom-free and fever-free. There is no risk of transmitting the influenza virus after receiving a flu vaccination.
For those that have the flu, it is important to wait until they no longer exhibit flu symptoms, have recovered completely and feel well before attempting to donate. Donors must feel healthy and well on the day of donation.
Upcoming blood donation opportunities in Clarion County include:
– From 1 to 6 p.m. on Oct. 30 at Clarion Mall, 22631 State Route 68;
– 12:30 to 6 p.m. on Nov. 2 at Clarion American Legion, 530 East Main Street in Clarion;
– 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Nov. 3 at Clarion Area High School, 219 Liberty Street in Clarion;
– 1 to 6 p.m. on Nov. 11 at Clarion Mall, 22631 State Route 68.
Stay healthy this flu season and make an appointment to donate blood by downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling (800) 733-2767 or enabling the blood donor skill on any Alexa Echo device.
In thanks for making time to donate, the Red Cross will send those who come to give through Nov. 11 a $5 Amazon.com gift card via email, courtesy of Suburban Propane.
Plus, those who come to give in October are automatically entered for a chance to win a $1,000 Amazon.com gift card. Five lucky people will win. (Restrictions apply. Additional information and details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/Unite.)