Chennai has always been the leader in voluntary blood donation. However, there is a trend that is noticeable in donor patterns, say officials of key blood banks in the city.
“Every monsoon, we see a dip in the number of voluntary donors, and it is probably because people think donating blood during times of diseases could let their immunity down.
This misconception is showing in the reducing number of donors. However, there is nothing serious, and we want the public not to believe in such myths. There is no wrong time to donate blood,” said Dr P. Ravindran, medical officer, department of transfusion medicine, Kilpauk Medical College Hospital.
A representative at the Centre for Blood Disorders, T. Nagar, said, “It is true that during the monsoons it is difficult to get fresh donations or components. Last week was especially hectic as we had to run to several blood banks.”
A paramedical officer in Aurobindo Blood Bank said, “This is the season when demand goes up, due to spread of infectious diseases. However, voluntary donations are going down by about 20 per cent. Though there is no panic situation and we are adequately stocked, it does make us a little apprehensive.”
An official from Lions Blood Bank said, “By ensuring that we go on donation drives punctually and undertake awareness drives, especially with the corporate sector, we are well-placed in terms of availability.”
State health secretary, Dr Radhakrishnan, said, “Though a little dip may happen during the season, there is nothing to worry about. The state, with 7.11 lakh voluntary donors, is the highest in the country.
Any given day, more than 15,000 units are available through government-run blood banks, which are promptly displayed on the relevant websites. We will ensure enough blood donation drives are undertaken. Meanwhile, the public should actively participate as always.”