HOUSTON – Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner held a news conference Wednesday where he addressed a deficit in the city’s blood supply. Chief Medical Officer Dr. David Persse and representatives for the Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center joined Turner for the 11 a.m. announcement.
During the news conference, Turner talked about the “chronic blood deficit” in the blood supply for the city. He also encouraged Houstonians to donate blood to help address the shortage.
“Blood donations are critically needed now and throughout the summer to ensure the availability of all blood types for patients who find themselves in need,” Turner said. “As the city resumes some level of normalcy ... the hospitals’ demand for blood is increasing.”
Blood donations tend to drop off during the summer months, according to Turner, which creates a shortage in supply.
“We’re the largest medical center in the world,” Turner said, “It is vital we have enough supply for everyone who needs a blood transfusion. You never know when you will be the person in need.”
Turner is hosting a blood drive at City Hall for people to come and donate conveniently. According to Turner, the drive will remain open as long as there are people in line to donate blood.
People who have received a COVID-19 are eligible to donate blood, Turner said. Donating will not reduce the efficacy of the vaccine or harm those who receive the donation.
Watch the full update below: