Blood banks in Mumbai on alert, will start camps in housing societies

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With a spike in Covid-19 cases in the city, the State Blood Transfusion Council (SBTC) has written to all city blood banks on the possible development of blood shortage. It has asked the banks to set up blood camps in housing societies to up their stock. Severe shortage of blood was seen in both the first and second wave.

Dr Arun Thorat, assistant director, SBTC, said the pandemic has affected the blood donation camps and that's why many hospitals are struggling with the requirement. "We saw the crisis of availability of blood in both the first and second wave. As a precautionary measure, we have sent a circular to all blood banks to remain prepared for the third wave," he said. The daily requirement of blood for the state is around 3,000-5,000 units.

In the letter, the SBTC said the blood banks right now have enough stock of blood and blood products. With rising cases and stricter restrictions in the city and state, organising a voluntary blood donation camp could face hinderance.