Inova is in critical need of blood this month, particularly from people with O-negative blood.
"The need for blood donors, especially those with O negative blood, has reached an all-time high. All blood types are needed, but Type O- is the most urgent need at this time and will help the most patients. Currently, we have less than a one-day supply of Type O- blood," according to the health system. "Type O- blood plays a crucial role in emergency situations, serving as the universal blood type that can be swiftly administered to trauma patients, ensuring timely and life-saving transfusions when every moment is critical."
Local residents can make an appointment to visit a blood donation center. The closest one to Alexandria is at 3289 Woodburn Road, Suite 010, Annandale.
In addition, Inova is hosting multiple blood donation drives in the next week, including one in Alexandria:
- Sunday, Jan. 7: Inova Center for Personalized Health, Fairfax, VA — www.inovablood.org/event/icph17.
- Wednesday, Jan. 10: Carlyle Neighborhood Blood Drive, Alexandria, VA — www.inovablood.org/event/carlyle-neighborhood-blood-drive-jan.
- Thursday, Jan. 11: Social Burger Blood Drive Blood Drive, Vienna, VA — www.inovablood.org/event/socialburger124.
- Saturday, Jan. 13: Holy Spirit Catholic Church Blood Drive, Annandale, VA — www.inovablood.org/event/holy-spirit-catholic-church-jan
- Monday, Jan. 15: Give Day Blood Drive at Meridian High School, Falls Church, VA — www.inovablood.org/event/give-day-2.
Donor eligibility has been updated in recent months with fewer restrictions based on sexual orientation and among people who previously resided in Europe. Learn more at www.inovablood.org/donate-blood/eligibility.
