10-1-21 emergency blood shortage

The American Red Cross is experiencing an emergency blood and platelet shortage.  American Red Cross Wisconsin spokesman Justin Kern says a sharp drop in blood donor turnout has contributed to the lowest post-summer blood inventory level in six years.    Kern says donors of all blood types, but especially type O and platelet donors are needed in the weeks ahead to help meet the needs of patients this fall.  Kern says an additional 10,000 blood products would have to be collected each week over the next month for the blood supply to recover and meet hospital and patient needs.