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MANIPAL: While many states are facing a shortage of oxygen and ICU beds in the wake of rising Covid-19 cases, experts fear that there could be a shortage of blood in the coming days. The government’s decision for all adults above 18 to get the jab in phase 3 of the vaccination drive from May 1, could lead to a shortage of blood donors.

Dr Avinash Shetty, medical superintendent, Kasturba Hospital, Manipal, told TOI, that they have been trying to spread awareness on the issue, and are requesting people to donate blood before taking the Covid-19 vaccine. “As per the guidelines issued by the National Blood Transfusion Council, one cannot donate blood for 28 days, after getting vaccinated. This may lead to an acute shortage of blood in the next two months,” he said.

“Last year, during the pandemic and lockdown, there was a shortage of blood and fearing a crisis, employees of the hospital were motivated to donate blood. We have noticed that people are hesitant to come to the hospital to donate blood during the pandemic. But last year, during the lockdown, there was a reduction in the number of accidents, and treatment of non-Covid cases. The situation is not the same this year,” he said.

“With colleges closed, mobilising students to donate blood continues to be a challenge. A majority of the blood donors are of the age group of 20-40, and are likely to get themselves jabbed in May. We are also holding discussions with experts on how to meet the challenges, and putting in place backup plans. We are considering postponing elective surgeries, and working out awareness drives to encourage youth to donate blood before getting vaccinated, by protecting oneself, and by also saving the lives of others,” Dr Shetty said.

The blood requirement of the hospital is around 1,500 units per month.

Dr Shamee Shastry, professor and head, Kastruba Hospital Blood Centre, also urged the public to donate blood before vaccination.