Ongoing snowstorms, widespread flu outbreaks and school vacations have caused blood donations to plummet this month. Currently blood inventories are down by close to 2000 pints across the Northeast.

    A new storm predicted to move throughout the region this week is expected to further impact blood reserves. The American Red Cross is urging all eligible blood donors to come forward at this time and help turn around this downward trend.

    "This winter is probably one of the toughest we've seen in terms of a prolonged shortfall," said Susan Parmer, R.N., CEO for the American Red Cross Blood Services, Northern New England Region. "Generally speaking once the word is out, things start to turn around quickly; however, the unrelenting storms and pervasive illnesses have made this February particularly challenging."

    Most people can donate blood through the Red Cross. Potential donors must be at least 17 years of age, weigh 110 pounds or more and be in good health on the day of donation. The state of Maine allows those who are 16 years of age to donate blood with parental consent. Most medications and medical conditions do not prohibit someone from donating blood and there is no longer an upper age limit. Blood is needed by people undergoing cancer treatment, for the victims of accidents, for patients facing major surgery, for premature babies and for other life-threatening conditions.

    "Here in New England, snow and ice storms are a regular part of life," Parmer further explained. "We expect school closings and power outages. But, just as schools must make up the snow days and power companies must get the lights back on, blood supplies must be brought back up because patients are counting on it."

    The need for blood donors in New England has never been greater. Anyone who is healthy and can get to a blood drive this week is needed to support those who cannot donate because they are ill or unable to travel due to bad weather.

    For additional information or to make an appointment to donate blood, call 1-800-GIVE LIFE or visit www.newenglandblood.org .