There is a critical shortage of O positive and negative blood types, with the National Blood Transfusion Service calling for donations that could help save lives.

The bank has less than 20 bags of O negative blood and around 50 bags of O positive. Demand for blood has increased as more operations are being carried out.

The bank uses about 50 bags of blood every day but demand spikes whenever there is a serious accident. There are cases where individual patients need 25 bags of blood.

Anyone who wishes to give blood can visit the clinic in Guardamangia, near St Luke’s Hospital, every day from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sundays and public holidays included. Donors must present an identification card, weigh at least 50 kilogrammes and be in good health.

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