The Region of Murcia has launched two weeks of special blood drives after O negative reserves dropped to a critical level. Stocks of B negative are also under pressure, with enough supply for only two to three days. The campaign began yesterday and runs in the lead-up to World Blood Donor Day on 14 June.
Hospitals across the region require between 150 and 200 units of blood every day, with demand continuing through weekends and the summer season. Health officials say maintaining stable supplies depends on consistent donations throughout the year.
So far in 2026, 25,372 people have given blood in the Region, resulting in 21,314 donations. Of those, 3,192 came from first-time donors. The Regional Blood Donation Center says encouraging younger donors is vital to ensure long-term stability in supplies.
The World Health Organization stresses that blood cannot be manufactured or substituted and must come from voluntary donors. Mobile donation units are visiting health centres, workplaces and other community locations during the campaign, and residents are being urged to book an appointment or attend a local session.
This article was written with AI assistance and reviewed by a human editor before publication.