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As the spread of the coronavirus continues throughout Kentucky and the U.S., Kentucky Blood Center is appealing to healthy individuals to donate blood to prevent shortages in the more than 70 Kentucky hospitals it serves. 

“Giving blood is a tangible way to take action in uncertain times,” said Martha Osborne, vice president of marketing for Kentucky Blood Center. “Cancer patients, accident and burn victims and other neighbors continue to need blood products. We anticipate with school and business closings that a national blood shortage will continue for the foreseeable future. It is imperative that healthy individuals continue to donate blood as soon as they can and as often as they can.”

Donors can help boost the blood supply at a local blood drive set for 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 15, at the Clark County Extension Office, 1400 Fortune Drive.

 Blood donors must be at least 17-years-old, weigh at least 110 pounds, be in general good health, show a photo I.D. and meet additional requirements.

Sixteen-year-old donors must have a signed parental permission slip, found at kybloodcenter.org.

Walk-ins are welcome.

To schedule a donation, visit kybloodcenter.org or call 800-775-2522. 

On the day of donation, donors can complete their health history questions on a tablet, computer or smartphone prior to coming to the blood drive by using QuickPass.