VICTORIA, Seychelles — The Blood Transfusion Centre at the Seychelles Hospital is making an urgent appeal for blood donors as its supplies have dropped to a critically low level. The severe shortage, compounded by a reduction in donation drives and an increased demand for blood, is directly affecting the unit’s ability to operate effectively.
‘At present, the stock of O positive blood is critical, and donations are urgently needed to ensure the safety and care of patients in need,’ said Joanne Michel, chief laboratory technologist of the Clinical Laboratory Services and Blood Transfusion Centre. ‘This blood group is particularly vital due to its prevalence and its role in emergency situations. Group O is what we call a universal donor — they are able to give blood to everyone with different blood types. In an emergency, if we do not have other groups available, we can always use group O blood to help any patient,’ she added.
The hospital can transfuse between five and ten units of blood a day, depending on clinical need. Mrs Michel noted that blood is needed not only for emergencies but also for planned surgeries, maternity cases, cancer treatment and patients with chronic conditions such as sickle cell disease.
The Blood Transfusion Centre is calling on healthy adults aged 18 to 65, weighing more than 50 kilogrammes, to come forward and donate. Members of the public are also encouraged to organise group donation drives at their workplaces, churches and community organisations to help replenish stocks and ensure that the country’s blood supply remains safe and reliable for all who need it.
