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The Herald, December 14, 1992
THE Zimbabwe Red Cross Society and the Blood Transfusion Service are appealing to the public, particularly school-leavers and schoolchildren, to donate blood and help improve stocks during the festive season.
Harare’s blood bank has only 841 units, against the recommended 1 500 units at any one time. Figures at national level could not be obtained.
In an interview in Harare on Friday, the acting head of the Zimbabwe Red Cross Society’s Blood Donor Services, Sister Judith Parirewa, said the blood now in stock in Harare was inadequate.
“The amount is below average. In December it is very difficult to meet our target of 1 500 units of blood in Harare,” she said.
LESSONS FOR TODAY
- Blood plays an important role in our bodies because without it our organs cannot get the oxygen and nutrients they need to survive and we will not be able to keep warm or cool off or fight infections, or get rid of our own waste products.
- With the festive season upon us, there is need to donate blood to ensure that the country has enough stocks to deal with emergencies such as accidents and other emergencies, which tend to increase during this period as many people tend to do a lot of travelling as well as merry-making.
- The National Blood Services Zimbabwe is currently on a drive to mobilise 13 000 units of blood to cater for demands for this festive season.
- Those eligible to donate blood should be between 16-60 years old, weigh more than 50 kg, be in good and lead a safe, low risk life.
Online Reporter