NEW YORK (WBNG) — The New York State Department of Health is urging eligible New Yorkers to donate blood this January.
According to the Department of Health, there is an urgent need for blood donations that was driven by declining donations during the holiday, inclement weather and the impact of a severe flu season.
The New York Blood Center recently declared a blood emergency, saying the organization has seen a nearly 40% drop in donations.
The American Red Cross has also alerted to a growing risk of blood shortage and are calling on community members to become a donor or to make an appointment.
If you are looking to donate blood, you can visit either the website of the American Red Cross or the New York Blood Center to find a location near you.
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