The Blood Center of Wisconsin is issuing an “emergency appeal” for blood donations for all types of blood.

The Blood Center of Wisconsin says they’ve experienced a shortfall in donations in the past few weeks as a result of the flu season. Recent winter snowstorm created an even greater urgency because of the cancelation of scheduled donation appointments.

For nearly a week, the center has had less than a one day supply of O negative blood and had less than a two day supply of most other blood types for more than a month. The Blood Center of Wisconsin’s goal is to have a constant three day supply to ensure they are prepared for any trauma situation.

The Blood Center of Wisconsin is the exclusive providers of blood to 56 Wisconsin hospitals and says they cannot fulfill our mission without the generosity of our donors.

The Blood Center of Wisconsin says anyone 17 or older who is in general good health and meets eligibility requirements is encouraged to donate blood. Parental consent is required for 16-year-olds to donate. The entire process takes about an hour. Donors should bring a photo ID that includes birth date.

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