Type O Blood Is Running Short In Minot And Donors Are Needed Now

Vitalant officials are urging more people to donate blood as the organization reports a shortage, with donation centers across the state and nation experiencing a steady decline in donors, hitting a two year low in May. The shortage is especially affecting supplies of type O-negative and type O-positive blood, which are among the most needed blood types.

Type O-negative blood is considered the universal donor type and can be used in emergency situations when a patient’s blood type is unknown. Type O-positive blood is also in high demand because it is the most common blood type among the U.S. population.

Blood donations are critical to hospitals and health care facilities nationwide. In the United States, about 16 million blood components are transfused each year, requiring nearly 45,000 units of blood every day.

Vitalant has scheduled several upcoming blood donation opportunities in the Williston area and surrounding communities. Residents are encouraged to consider donating at one of the following locations:

Williams County Dispatch Center
3429 4th Ave. W.
Williston
Tuesday, July 28
Noon to 5:30 p.m.

Williston National Guard Armory
10 Main St.
Williston
Monday, Aug. 3
Noon to 6 p.m.

Ray Auditorium
215 Main St.
Ray
Wednesday, Aug. 5
12:30 to 6 p.m.

CHI St. Alexius Health-Williston McAuley Education Center
1301 15th Ave. W.
Williston
Thursday, Aug. 6
11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

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Vitalant officials say every donation can help support patients in need and strengthen local blood supplies. Eligible donors are encouraged to schedule an appointment ahead of time to help ensure adequate blood availability.