Tuesday 10 February 2009

VICTORIAN BUSHFIRE DISASTER: NOW IS THE TIME TO REGISTER TO GIVE BLOOD

Despite blood banks across the country being inundated with volunteers wanting to give blood, now is still a good time to register to become an ongoing blood donor, Shadow Minister for Health Jillian Skinner said today.

“Blood banks are reporting they’ve been inundated by members of the public wanting to donate, and that supplies in Victoria are at present adequate to meet demand,” Mrs Skinner said.

“These current circumstances should not deter people from registering to become a blood donor,” she said.

“Burns victims require long term and ongoing treatment and more blood will be needed to aid their recovery.

“A constant flow of blood donations is required to give these fire victims the best care possible – your blood, even if it is donated some weeks from now, will help these burns victims during their extended rehabilitation.

“If people are looking for some way to help during this terrible disaster, registering to become an ongoing blood donor will make a difference.

“According to the Australian Red Cross Blood Service, many products can be made from blood to aid the treatment of burn victims.

“The Australian Red Cross Blood Service is reporting that it will take some time to schedule an appointment due to demand – people need to be patient and remember that their blood donation will help the Victorian burns victims in their long term recovery,” Mrs Skinner said.

People should visit the Australian Red Cross Blood Service website to see if they are eligible to give blood, or call 13 14 95.

The Australian Red Cross Blood Service website is: www.donateblood.com.au