The State Blood Donation Center (GCDC) calls for blood donations in the lead-up to and during the holiday period, reports the center to the LETA agency.
Blood can be donated on December 22, 23, 29, and 30, as well as on January 2. Blood donation points will be closed from December 24 to 26, as well as on December 31 and January 1.
The center invites donors of all blood types, with a particular need for B- (Third negative) and O- (First negative) groups.
As emphasized by the Blood Donation Center, patient treatment continues during the holidays, and it is especially important to ensure a sufficient blood supply during this time. The director of the center, Egita Pole, notes that the demand for blood and donor activity in Latvia depend on seasons, holiday periods, and the number of patients in hospitals. Blood supplies often decrease due to long weekends. For example, after four days off for state holidays this year, supplies were low as many critically ill patients were in hospitals, creating a need for blood components. A similar situation is observed during other holiday periods.
Blood Donation Point Hours
December 23:
- Selpils Street 9 — from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM
- Brivibas Boulevard 32 — from 8:00 AM to 2:30 PM
- Hipokrata Street 2 — from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM
- Kurzeme Branch in Liepaja, Slimnicas Street 25 — from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM
- Latgale Branch in Rezekne, 18 November Street 41 — closed
December 30:
- Selpils Street 9 — from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM
- Brivibas Boulevard 32 — from 8:00 AM to 2:30 PM
- Hipokrata Street 2 — from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM
- Latgale Branch — from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
- Kurzeme Branch — from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM
January 2:
- Selpils Street 9 — from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Brivibas Boulevard 32 — from 8:00 AM to 2:30 PM
- Hipokrata Street 2 — from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM
- Latgale Branch — from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM
- Kurzeme Branch — closed
The Blood Donation Center emphasizes that donated blood is especially needed during this period to assist patients on holidays.
According to the Labor Law, a donor is entitled to a paid day off the day after donating blood, and by agreement with the employer, it can be used at another time. The employer pays for up to five such days per year.
To donate blood, it is necessary to have a valid identification document that includes a personal code, first name, last name, and photograph.
The center reminds that to ensure good well-being and blood quality, men can donate blood with an interval of at least nine weeks, while women can do so with an interval of at least 13 weeks since the last donation.
In everyday life, and especially before donating blood, it is recommended to consume at least 1.5–2 liters of fluids per day. This will help better endure the procedure. For 24 hours before donation, fatty and spicy foods, as well as alcohol, should be avoided. On the day of blood donation, a light meal is recommended 3–4 hours before the procedure and additional fluid intake.
Leave a comment