New York State Department of Health Calls on New Yorkers to Donate Blood Amid Statewide Blood Emergency
Low Blood Supply a Concern Going Into The Summer 'Trauma Season,' the FIFA World Cup and America's 250th Anniversary Celebrations
World Blood Donor Day, June 14
ALBANY, N.Y. (June 12, 2026) - The New York State Department of Health is calling on New Yorkers to donate blood in honor of Blood Donor Day on June 14. Blood centers across New York State have declared a blood emergency with less than a two-day supply overall, and less than a one-day supply for type O blood in some areas of the state.
The period between Memorial Day and Labor Day, sometimes referred to as 'trauma season,' brings an increase in severe injuries from car accidents, ATV crashes, sports-related injuries and other summer activities, causing hospitals to require large volumes of blood. Other major summer events during this period, such as the FIFA World Cup and America's 250th anniversary celebrations, are expected to increase travel and large gatherings, making it especially important to maintain an adequate blood supply.
While hospitals are currently able to meet patient needs, continued shortages could result in delays or postponements of scheduled and elective surgeries.
"With the increase in travel and gatherings this summer, we expect to see an increase in injuries requiring blood transfusions - we want to ensure that patients who are suffering from traumatic injuries, undergoing surgery, or fighting cancer can get the blood they need in an emergency," New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said. "When I donate blood, I know that up to three people might benefit from the blood and platelets I gave. It's one of those things where we can give the gift of life to another person. It's a beautiful thing to do."
Blood donations go to trauma victims, surgical patients, cancer patients, burn victims, newborn babies and mothers delivering babies, patients suffering from sickle cell disease and countless others. Just one donation can help multiple people who need treatment and medical support. With updates to FDA guidance, donors can give blood up to every 56 days.
All blood types are needed, but especially those that have hit dangerously low levels, such as Types A-, B-, and O+/O-. Type O negative is especially important for donation as it can be given to patients of any blood type and is most used in emergencies when the blood type of a patient is unknown.
A single person injured in a serious car accident can require up to 100 units of blood and trauma patients can sometimes require dozens, even hundreds of blood transfusions in a matter of hours. Blood is an invaluable resource in keeping patients stable and in emergencies there is no substitute.
New Yorkers can find nearby locations to donate blood by visiting either the American Red Cross website or the New York Blood Center website. Connect Life Blood & Organ Donor Network can be found here.
New York Codes, Rules, and Regulations for blood donor qualifications can be found here.
