Blood bank urgently calls for type O negative

Memorial Blood Centers says it has less than a one-day supply of Type O negative blood -- the type used in emergencies -- for hospitals in the Twin Cities, northern Minnesota and western Wisconsin.

Star Tribune

Last update: January 8, 2009 - 12:06 AM

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Memorial Blood Centers has put out a plea for donations of type O negative blood.

The nonprofit community blood bank said Tuesday that it has less than a one-day supply for the 30 hospitals it serves in the Twin Cities, northern Minnesota and northwestern Wisconsin.

"Type O blood is the universal donor and is used in emergencies when blood typing is not possible," said Dr. Elizabeth Perry, Memorial Blood Centers' associate medical director. "Due to multiple traumas in both Minneapolis, St. Paul, as well as the northland area, Memorial Blood Centers is issuing the critical-need alert."

Blood type is based on the presence or absence of two proteins -- A and B -- on the surface of red blood cells. Type O has neither protein.

About 40 percent of Americans have type O positive blood, but only about 7 percent have type O negative blood, according to the American Red Cross.

Type O negative blood is the preferred type for accident victims and babies needing transfusions, the Red Cross said.

Memorial Blood Centers needs about 450 donors a day to maintain supplies, Perry said.

Donors who are 17 and older must be in good health and weigh at least 110 pounds. Those who are 16 must weigh a minimum of 130 pounds, be at least 5 feet tall and have a signed parental consent form.

The process takes about 45 minutes. Appointments are not necessary, but are highly recommended to ensure a particular time slot. To register, call 651-332-7000 in the Twin Cities, 1-218-723-8080 in northern Minnesota or toll free at 1-888-448-3253. Donors can also register online at www.mbc.org.

TIM HARLOW