La Paz health services face critical blood and oxygen shortages amid blockades

Bolivia's Ministry of Health has launched an urgent appeal for blood donations in La Paz after road blockades and fuel shortages slashed blood and platelet reserves at the city's Hemocentro. Hospitals, especially oncology and emergency units, are struggling to meet daily needs of 40‑50 units, and the ministry highlighted the need for O Rh‑positive donations, urging the public that “your blood can become hope for many families.”

Hospital officials report that only 123 units of blood remain and oxygen supplies are projected to last 72 hours. The blockade, driven by groups supportive of Evo Morales, has halted fuel deliveries, stopped mobile donor collections, and left ambulances operating on donated gasoline. Four deaths have been recorded since the crisis began 25 days ago. An emergency meeting of the Departmental Emergency Operations Committee was held to coordinate actions on oxygen, blood, medicines, fuel and food shortages.