By S, KNA
Residents of Busia have been urged to embrace the practice of blood donation with a view to meet the high demand for the commodity in the health facilities.
Addressing the press at Busia County Referral Hospital premises on Wednesday, Busia Blood Satellite Centre In-Charge Sammy Emukule stated that the county is operating below the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended standards.
“According to WHO, Busia County is supposed to collect 8,937 units annually, which translates to about 37 units per day,’ he said adding that the County currently collects only 15 units of blood per day.
Emukule encouraged all eligible individuals aged between 16 and 65 years to donate blood in order to bridge the deficit of 17 units.
“Currently, we manage to collect about 15 units per day, leaving us with a deficit of 17 units daily. That is why we are encouraging all eligible individuals aged between 16 and 65 years to
Busia County Blood Transfusion Director Anne Kiragu, on her part underscored the importance of maintaining adequate blood stocks at the facility and in health institutions across the county.
“Having blood at our satellite centre is critical in saving the lives of our people, especially mothers in maternity wards. We also have sickle cell patients and accident victims who require regular transfusions. That is why it is important to ensure we always have enough blood,” said Kiragu.
She noted that the county has made progress since establishing the satellite centre in 2016, increasing the number of blood transfusing facilities from nine to the current 15.
However, she appealed to members of the public to actively participate in donation drives to bridge the existing gap.
“We have already begun public sensitization to help people understand the importance of donating blood and to dispel the myths surrounding blood donation,” she added.
Kiragu revealed that the county uses an average of 32 units of blood daily but often faces overwhelming situations that require even more.
“In terms of collection, we still face challenges in meeting the required levels because many people are reluctant to donate blood,” she said.
Manchester United Kenya Supporters Western Region Chairperson Nahashon Mumia called on residents to turn up in large numbers for the drive slated for Friday, February 28.
“As a group, we have decided to support our health facilities through this blood donation drive so that we can also be part of those saving lives. Donating blood also gives someone an opportunity to know their health status. I urge everyone to join us on 28th February at Busia Polytechnic so that we can save lives,” he said.
Busia Chapter Chairperson Dr. Asoka Itur echoed the call, saying the group is targeting between 250 and 300 units of blood during the exercise.
“We are aware that our facilities are facing shortages. That is why Manchester United supporters and all well-wishers are coming together for this cause. We are targeting at least 250 to 300 units, or even more,” he said.
