Due to the outbreak of Covid-19,blood supply at the National Blood Centre and other centers throughout the country decreased by 40% compared to previous years.

For example, blood collection from March to May 2018 was 111,328 bags. However, the collection for the corresponding period this year was only 67,135 bags. This showed that there has been a drastic decrease in the number of blood donors in Malaysia. Although various promotional activities have been carried out, the status of blood collection has not been satisfactory to date, reaching only 57% of the target.

Several ways have been implemented to solve this problem. First, the operating time for blood centers had been extended until 9pm. Next, various other collection points such as malls and community centers are also open. Lastly,  those who have recovered from Covid-19 or returned from countries with Covid-19 cases will be allowed to donate blood after 28 days. 

The prime cause behind India facing a dearth of blood donors is the lack of knowledge about the entire process, especially in the less developed states. People consider it as a very complicated process besides harboring various other myths around the blood donation. A very big and common misconception that keeps people away from the noble cause is that donating blood reduces masculinity in males. Women feel they cannot donate blood as it weakens their immune system. Besides, menstruation is seen as an unnecessary issue. Baon payment on blood donors is considered another major reason why India is facing a shortage of blood. While earlier, almost one-third of the blood supply was from paid donors, both the private and government hospitals have suffered following the ban. However, there is a positive side to this ban as it has put an end to unsafe blood donations. 

World Blood Donor Day 2020: Blood is a life saving resource. The theme for the Blood donor day 2020 is 'Safe Blood Saves Lives' which would be promoted with the slogan 'Give blood and make the world a healthier place.' 

World Blood Donor Day is observed on every 14 June worldwide. This day tries to create awareness about the need for safe blood and blood products. It also thanks blood donors for their contribution in saving lives with blood. An adequate supply of blood is necessary for optimum health. Blood requirements occur during treatments including both planned and urgent. It is a life-saving resource that should be available in the right quantities to handle all kinds of emergencies. Blood donation helps blood services ensure a safe and sufficient amount of blood.

According to WHO, access to safe blood is still a privilege of the few. Most low- and middle-income countries struggle to make safe blood available because donations are low and equipment to test blood is scarce. Globally, 42% of blood is collected in high-income countries, which are home to only 16% of the world's population.

Dr. Reena Bansal explains, "Blood donation is a safe process. Anyone can donate blood in four simple steps - registration, medical history, blood donation and refreshments. On an average around 350 to 450 mL of blood is withdrawn, which usually takes 24-48 hours to replace with the new blood volume. The red blood cells (RBC) are replaced automatically within 4 to 6 weeks."

"Your donation helps in saving the life of people. The day before your blood donation make sure you eat well, take a balanced diet on the same day. Drink extra water and fluids; avoid caffeinated drinks like tea and coffee," she adds.

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