Brazil blood centers call for donors as O‑negative supplies hit critical low

The Hemocentro in Franca, São Paulo, announced on July 3 that its O‑negative blood stock fell to just two bags, the last remaining universal donor units. The center posted an urgent appeal on Instagram, warning that patients needing transfusions are at risk and that "if you have O‑negative blood, your donation can save lives today."

In Mato Grosso do Sul, the Hospital Regional (HRMS) and Hemosul will hold a "Dia D de Doação de Sangue" on July 15 to combat the typical winter decline in donations. The event will run from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., extending normal hours, and aims to maintain supplies for the hospital’s 300+ beds and high‑complexity procedures. Director‑technical Patrícia Rubini emphasized that "the need for blood remains the same during winter, and the Dia D is a collective effort to ensure no patient lacks treatment because of a shortage."