Madrid hospitals report urgent blood shortages

Hospitals in the Community of Madrid are facing a critical shortage of blood, with reserves currently at 36% of their optimal level. Several blood types, including B-, 0-, 0+, A+, A-, and AB-, are under red alert.

To address this, a blood and plasma donation marathon is being held at the Real Casa de Correos, the regional government headquarters. The donation site is open from 9:00 to 21:00, with an earlier closing time of 20:00 on Saturday. Access is available via San Ricardo Street. For plasma donations, which require approximately 45 minutes via plasmapheresis, an appointment must be scheduled by calling 91 301 72 40.

The region requires approximately 900 donations per day to meet the annual demand of 230,000 units. These supplies are essential for surgeries, transplants, and emergency care. Beyond the special event, donations can be made at 32 fixed points across 30 public and private hospitals, through 16 mobile units, or at the Transfusion Center in Valdebernardo.