Blood reserves reach critical levels in Spain and Venezuela

Health authorities in Spain and Venezuela are issuing urgent appeals for blood donations following significant drops in reserves.

In the Castilla y León region of Spain, the Hemotherapy and Hemodonation Center has reported low levels of A positive (A+), O positive (O+), and AB negative (AB-) blood groups. Officials emphasized that blood cannot be manufactured and relies entirely on voluntary donations to support surgical interventions, medical treatments, and emergency services.

In Carúpano, Venezuela, the Santos Aníbal Dominicci Hospital and the Candelaria García maternity ward are facing a critical shortage of type O blood. The service coordinator reported that reserves have fallen to between three and five bags, while the required amount ranges from 40 to 50 bags. The shortage heavily impacts oncology, nephrology, and trauma patients, noting that 90% of patients receiving blood components are type O.