Sambalpur: Blood Crisis Hits Sambalpur District Headquarter Hospital, Only 2-3 Units Available

Sambalpur: The Sambalpur District Headquarter Hospital is facing a shortage of blood in its storage. This morning, only 3 units of blood were available in the warehouse, comprising one unit of A-positive and two units of B-positive blood. The hospital typically requires about 20 units daily, with an additional 3-4 units needed for outpatient services. The shortage has become critical, leaving no blood available even for emergencies, necessitating donors to step forward.

Blood shortages are common during the summer months, and this year’s hesitation among donors owing to severe hot conditions has compounded the situation. The shortage appeared even before the dry season began. Several districts, including Bargarh, Sonepur, Debgarh, and Jharsuguda, rely heavily on the Sambalpur District Headquarter hospital for healthcare services. Additionally, residents from neighboring Chhattisgarh also depend on Sambalpur hospitals, leading to a constant influx of patients and a significant need for blood.

Dr. Kalpesh Kakkat, blood bank officer of Sambalpur General Hospital, stated that blood collection has been hampered since the implementation of the election procedure. Volunteer-run blood donation camps have suspended operations, adding to the present shortage. Efforts are underway to solve the situation, with two blood donation camps planned for the near future to help alleviate the shortage.