An union member from Tuyên Quang City, Tuyên Quang Province, gives blood. — VNA/VNS Photo Quang Cường

HÀ NỘI — The National Institute of Hematology and Blood Transfusion (NIHBT) has announced an urgent need for approximately 80,000 units of blood between December 2024 and January 2025, with blood type O making up about 50 per cent of the total requirement.

The end of the year and the Tết (Lunar New Year) period consistently mark a peak in blood demand, particularly for emergency care and medical treatments.

Associate Professor Dr. Trần Ngọc Quế, Director of the National Blood Center under the NIHBT, explained that while blood demand remains steady throughout the year, it surges significantly before and after the Lunar New Year.

On average, the Institute requires around 9,500 blood units per week, but this figure can rise to 10,000-10,500 units during the holiday season.

The increased demand stems from patients requiring blood transfusions ahead of the holiday to ensure they can celebrate with family in good health.

After the holiday, many return to hospitals for ongoing treatment, placing significant pressure on healthcare facilities.

Additionally, hospitals must stock larger reserves to prepare for emergencies during the extended nine-day holiday period.

Compounding the challenge, harsh winter conditions in the northern region during January 2025, including severe cold and freezing temperatures, may hinder blood donation campaigns.

To address this, the NIHBT is urging citizens to schedule blood donations at fixed donation sites starting mid-January 2025.

In previous years, blood shortages often occurred during Tết holiday due to limited donation campaigns and concentrated efforts at specific times of the year.

However, the situation has improved significantly thanks to the efforts of the Steering Committee for Voluntary Blood Donation, active participation from organisations, and large-scale events such as 'Red Sunday' and the 'Spring Festival of Red Blood'.

These initiatives have enabled the NIHBT and other blood centres to meet their targets through February 2025.

The Institute has developed a detailed plan to manage and distribute blood supplies and related products to meet essential needs during this critical period. Special programmes have been launched to encourage donations of rare blood types to prevent severe shortages.

Events such as the 'Spring Festival of Red Blood' and 'White Blouse- Red Heart' will continue to raise awareness and engage the public.

To ensure a continuous supply, the NIHBT will remain open for blood donations throughout the Lunar New Year, including Lunar New Year’s Eve, as well as the first and second days of the new year. Platelet collection will be prioritised, as platelets have a short storage period of only five days.

Associate Professor Quế emphasised the importance of maintaining good health for regular blood donors so they can continue to contribute when needed.

“Donating blood is one of the most humane acts, particularly during the sensitive and critical Lunar New Year period,” he said. — VNS