The American Red Cross has declared only the second national blood-supply crisis in its history and is urging eligible donors to give, especially people with type O-positive blood.
The organization said Monday that its national supply of type O-positive blood had fallen below one day’s worth. Because O-positive is the most commonly transfused blood type, the Red Cross said it has begun limiting distributions of type O blood to individual hospitals.
The Red Cross attributed the decline in donations to a combination of extreme heat, poor air quality and widespread foodborne illnesses that reduced turnout during the summer. It said blood donations had reached a four-year summer low.
The first national crisis declaration came in 2022 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Blood products are needed for trauma care, surgeries, cancer treatment and other emergencies, and supplies must be replenished continually because they have limited shelf lives.
People who are eligible to donate can find appointments and current requirements through the American Red Cross. Donors should use the organization’s official scheduling information and follow health guidance at the donation site.
Source: HuffPost, July 28, 2026, with verification from the American Red Cross.
