Blood Banks Reporting Shortages of Supply

The nation’s blood supply is at a critical low point — so low that some experts fear doctors might have to decide among their sickest patients who gets the blood that’s on hand. The American Red Cross supplies about 40 percent of the country’s blood needs. Officials at the organization say its inventory is the lowest for this time of the year since 2015. Officials also say the COVID-19 pandemic is a major factor, because there are now few blood drives at businesses and schools. However, donation centers have safety measures in place to make sure donors are safe.