Blood drive here Thursday; critical need alert is issued

The American Red Cross has issued a critical need alert for blood donors.
Blood donations are needed now to help prevent a shortage, said Red Cross officials.
In a news release, it was stated, “At this moment, the situation is critical—blood donations are dropping. If this continues, we could face a potential blood shortage, and patients could face delays in care.”
The bloodmobile will be held at the expo building at Chase County Fairgrounds this Thursday from 12 noon to 6 p.m.
    Appointments to give blood can be made online at redcross blood.org, or call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767), said Emma Jenkins, community blood drive coordinator.
    To get a RapidPass on the day of a blood donation, donors should visit redcross blood.org/rapidpass, complete the questionnaire, then print  the RapidPass and bring it with them.
    Only those feeling healthy and well should present to donate blood, and appointments are strongly encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome, Jenkins said.
     O-positive or any negative-type blood can donate power reds, but those donors should plan on about an hour and a half of donation time.
    The American Red Cross continues to test all blood donations for COVID-19 antibodies.
Masks still required
    The Red Cross follows the highest standards of safety and infection control, officials say.
    Valve face masks are not permitted, and face shields can be worn in addition to face masks but not as a substitute.
    The next Imperial blood drive will be held at the Chase County Schools auxiliary gym on July 20, from 12 noon to 6 p.m.