Flu season impacts blood donation across the CSRA - WFXG FOX54 Augusta - Your News One Hour Earlier

Flu season impacts blood donation across the CSRA

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AUGUSTA, GA (WFXG) -

The flu has hit the U.S. hard shutting down schools and affecting the workflow of businesses. Now, the flu seems to be having an impact on blood donation as well.  Shepeard Community Blood Center is asking for donors to please help save local lives today.

"We are currently experiencing low donor turnout at majority of our blood drives and center locations," said Claire Rossie, spokesperson for Shepeard Community Blood Center.  "The flu season has created quite a challenge in meeting the needs of our local community."

Shepeard depends on loyal, volunteer blood donors to help patients in 21 local hospitals.  O negative donors are especially needed right now because it is the blood type emergency responders reach for when seconds count.  O negative is the universal blood type which means anyone can receive it.

"Our community is always extremely supportive and always comes to our aid when needed, and we thank them for all of their help," said Rossie.  "We need donors right now more than ever. If you have donated blood before and it has been a while, or even if you have never donated blood, please consider donating blood today."

All healthy people weighing at least 110 pounds and at least 17 years old, or 16 with written parental consent, can come to one of Shepeard's center locations to donate or visit www.shepeardblood.org to find community blood drives in your area this month. Please be sure to eat a good, healthy meal and drink plenty of water before and after your donation.

Shepeard Community Blood Center - Augusta
1533 Wrightsboro Road, Augusta, GA 30904
Monday - Friday: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Shepeard Community Blood Center - Evans
4329 Washington Road, Evans, GA 30809
Monday - Friday: 8:00 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.; Sunday: 12:00 p.m.  to 5:00 p.m.

Shepeard Community Blood Center - Aiken
(in the Hitchcock Plaza Shopping Center)
353 Fabian Drive, Aiken, SC 29803
Monday - Friday: 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.; Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

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