Yellow-and-black banners stating “Emergency Need” are displayed on LifeSouth bloodmobiles to encourage donors to stop and donate. LifeSouth uses the word ’emergency’ when less than a two-day supply of blood is available. (CONTRIBUTED)

MADISON – Less than one week after issuing an emergency statement, LifeSouth Community Blood Centers officials say they are making progress but the blood supply is still extremely low.

LifeSouth only uses the word ’emergency’ when less than a two-day supply of blood is available to restock its hospitals. Type O blood continues to be low and is especially needed.

Unseasonably cold weather and widespread cases of flu continue to impact blood donations.

“We want to thank the media and our donors who responded to our call for help. We are gaining ground, but we are not out of the woods yet,” LifeSouth Vice President of Operations J.B. Bowles said. LifeSouth’s goal is to have a minimum of five days’ worth of blood in reserve to re-supply hospitals.

“We are still not there, especially for Type O, the universal blood type that can be given in emergencies,” Bowles said. “The challenge is that while we’re trying to gain ground, hospitals continue to need blood. In fact, usage is up, so our shelves are still empty.”

Following a traditional trend, blood donations dropped sharply in late December and early January during the holiday season. However, cold weather and flu also have prevented donors to return the blood inventory to needed levels.

“We are putting out an emergency plea for donors especially those with Type O blood to please donate,” Bowles said. “Our community needs your help.”

Donors must be 17 or older. Sixteen-year-olds can donate if they have parental consent, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and are in good health. A photo ID also is required. For more information, call 888-795-2707 or visit lifesouth.org.

To contact the Madison office, call district community development coordinator Marquasha Carter at 256-533-8246 or email to mdcarter@lifesouth.org.