Taiwan seeks 240,000 units of blood donations ahead of Lunar New Year
台灣在農曆新年前呼籲募集24萬袋血液
| TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan’s blood banks have begun preparations a month in advance for the upcoming nine-day Lunar New Year holiday, aiming to collect 240,000 units of blood before Feb. 14.
The Taiwan Blood Services Foundation said the normal safe inventory level for blood supplies is enough for seven to 10 days. This year, it hopes to increase reserves to more than 10 days ahead of the holiday to ensure hospitals have adequate supplies, according to CNA. Foundation Chair Hou Sheng-mao (侯勝茂) said blood shortages are more likely during major holidays. During the Lunar New Year period, donor turnout typically declines for several reasons, including overseas travel and an increase in seasonal illnesses. Despite the drop in donations, medical demand for blood remains steady, making it necessary for blood centers to build up reserves in advance, Hou said. Each unit of whole blood in Taiwan is collected in a 250-milliliter bag, containing about 220 ml of blood and 30 ml of preservative solution, according to CareOnline. Hospitals nationwide use an average of 6,626 blood bags per day, according to TVBS. To help maintain supply, some donation centers across Taiwan will remain open during the holiday period. The foundation noted that while whole blood and red blood cells can be stored for up to 35 days, platelets have a shelf life of only five days. |
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| Charlotte Lee Taiwan News, Staff Writer | |
| 2026-01-15 |
