Czech hospitals launch summer blood drive to address Rh‑negative shortage

Hospitals in the Czech Republic are responding to a seasonal shortfall in blood donations with a summer campaign. The Hematology‑Transfusion Department of AGEL Prostějov has joined the nationwide “I tobě v žilách koluje naše krev” initiative, offering themed donation days, refreshments and prizes. The centre also now serves as a recruitment hub for the Czech National Bone Marrow Donor Registry, allowing eligible donors aged 18‑35 to register on‑site.

At the same time, the AGEL Transfusion Service has warned of a critical deficit of Rh‑negative blood, especially the universal donor type O‑ (zero negative). While supplies of Rh‑positive groups remain stable, the shortage jeopardises emergency transfusions for patients with severe bleeding. The service is urging donors of groups A+, B+ and AB+ to consider plasma donation, which can be collected more frequently and helps meet ongoing medical needs.