German hospitals face blood donation shortages during summer holidays

The Agaplesion Bethesda Hospital in Bergedorf, Hamburg, has called for increased blood donations, noting the high daily consumption of blood units across its wards. The hospital is partnering with the German Red Cross (DRK) to encourage local donors to visit the Bergedorf clinic on Glindersweg.

In Dinslaken, the Evangelical Klinikum Niederrhein and St. Vinzenz Hospital reported a 40 % drop in blood donations during the main vacation period, leading to occasional postponement of planned surgeries. Although the hospitals say emergency care remains secured and there are currently no critical shortages, the DRK warns that heat waves and bad weather further depress donor turnout. The organization urges residents to donate regardless of temperature, highlighting that donated blood can be safely given even in hot conditions.