As need for donors persists, Vitalant is hosting a blood drive next week

The need for blood donations continues in the Inland Northwest, and Vitalant is asking those who are eligible to donate.

There is a blood drive at the Wonder Building on Wednesday, and donors can sign up online or by calling (877) 258-4825. The blood drive will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Vitalant also takes donations in person at its locations throughout the county.

All blood types are needed, but donors with O blood are especially desired because it is the universal type that can be used in emergency rooms when a person’s blood type is not known.

Vitalant is also seeking platelets, which are used within a week of donation in patients who are receiving cancer treatment or getting transplants.

If you received a COVID-19 vaccine, you are eligible to donate blood, granted you meet other requirements to donate. Vitalant will require all donors and staff to wear masks starting Monday, regardless of vaccination status.