Since January 20, after the first case of coronavirus infection was reported in South Korea, the number of blood donors has plunged by more than 20,000 people compared to last year. (Yonhap)
SEOUL, Feb. 6 (Korea Bizwire) — South Koreans are refraining from making blood donations following the spread of the coronavirus infection in the country.
“Supplying blood is becoming more difficult due to a dwindling number of donors amid the coronavirus spread,” said the Korean Red Cross on Wednesday.
Since January 20, after the first case of coronavirus infection was reported in South Korea, the number of blood donors has plunged by more than 20,000 people compared to last year.
As of Sunday, 145 organizations have cancelled planned blood drives.
The current blood inventory is capable of supplying blood for 1.3 days less than last year. It is expected to drop below a three-day inventory, much lower than the recommended five-day inventory.
“We already have experienced overcoming Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) by joining hands under a humanitarian spirit and participating in blood donations,” said the Korean Red Cross.
“We ask you once again to help us save the lives of so many patients in need.”
H. M. Kang (hmkang@koreabizwire.com)
