Blood donations continue to be lower than they were pre-pandemic as people hold off on donating. The Community Blood Center of the Ozarks is holding an extended blood drive at Freeman Health System this morning. KRPS’s Fred Fletcher-Fierro has more.

CBCO is still experiencing lower than normal donations while seeing higher than average hospital blood usage, resulting in only a 1 – 2 day supply of blood. According to the Red Cross Blood donations have dropped by as much as 11% as potential donors put off donating after receiving a COVID-19 vaccine or being ill with disease.

1000’s of blood drives that typically take place at high schools, universities and work places have been cancelled due to the pandemic. A single blood donation can help save up three lives. In response to the continued need for blood donations, Freeman is hosting an extended blood drive today starting at 9:00 am until 5:00 pm. It will take place at Freeman Hospital West Conference rooms 2W and 4W. Appointments aren’t required, but strongly encouraged. More information at cbco.org or call 417-227-5006. For 89 9 KRPS, I’m Fred Fletcher-Fierro